Beading

Beading is the craft of threading beads onto string, cord or wire to make jewellery and decorations, such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings and keyrings. People have made and worn beads for many thousands of years, from shells, stones, seeds, clay and glass. It's simple to start, easy to adapt for any age and lovely to do side by side.

Paper beads are rolled from long, thin strips of paper, glued and sealed. Old magazines work brilliantly, as the printed colours and patterns only show once the bead is rolled.

Wooden beads are light, warm and easy for small fingers to thread. They're often used as spacers between brighter beads.

Pony beads are chunky plastic beads with big holes, which makes them a good choice for younger children.

Seed beads are tiny glass beads used for fine, detailed work, including bead weaving and loom beading.

Glass, clay and gemstone beads come in every shape you can think of, from round and faceted to flat discs and tubes.

Cut a long, thin triangle or strip of paper. Starting at the wide end, roll it tightly around a thin stick or skewer, keeping it straight so the bead stays even. Add a dab of glue to the last bit to hold it closed, then slide the bead off. A coat of glue or varnish over the top makes it stronger and gives it a little shine. Long triangles make fat, rounded beads, while straight strips make neat tubes. Every bead turns out slightly different, which is half the fun.

Your Activity Leader shows everyone how to roll, glue and finish a bead, then you make a little pile of your own. Once they're ready, you mix them with other beads, plan a pattern and thread them onto cord or elastic. Finishing touches might include a knot, a clasp or a keyring loop. Everyone leaves wearing, or carrying, something they made from scratch.

Yes, it's a gentle, calm craft that works well for a wide range of ages. Threading and rolling are great for fine motor skills and patience, and choosing colours and patterns lets every child's style shine through. Younger children may need a hand with the threading, so it's a lovely one to do together. Making beads from old paper is a nice way to talk about reusing things too.

You might also like Block Printing, Tie Dye and Flower Headdresses.

See all Camp Kindling activities