Making your own jewelry is really great, and your whole family will enjoy in this interesting activity. Once you start with it, you will probably realize it is highly addictive, and it doesn't require special investments. And, you are free to use all types of materials. Being creative has many good qualities, and can even be therapeutic. Not to mention the fact that you can make really great things.

You can use all types of materials, including clay, plastic, glass or stone, or even paper. The last one is really interesting, because it can also be considered as recycling. You probably have all sorts of magazines, paper bags and similar things you can use for making beautiful paper beads. So, here are some ideas you might use to start with.

Once you find the material you want to use, you will also need a pair of scissors, maybe a craft knife, varnish, glue, soft brushes for applying glue and varnish, ruler and, of course, some type of a mat you will cut on. As a rolling base, you may use knitting needles, bamboo sticks, or even special sticks designed especially for this purpose, it's up to you.

The first thing you should do is to cut one long triangle. The base of the triangle will be the width of your bead, and the length depends on your taste. Longer triangles make thicker beads. Just roll one triangle to get the idea how thick the bead will be. Of course, it will also depend on the type of paper you use, because thicker papers make thicker beads.

Apply glue only on the inner side of the triangle, on the whole length or only on a few places. Thickly roll the triangle on the stick. Always put more glue on the end, to make sure the bead will stay firm. The type of glue is also up to you. Some materials work best with different types of glue, and paper napkins can be glued with the mixture of flour and water only.

Once you get the general idea with your first few triangles, you may also experiment with slightly different shapes. The beads don't have to be symmetrical, and everything is allowed. Try rolling up two overlapping triangles together, just to see what can be made this way. After that, simply let the bead dry, and apply several coats of varnish on it. More coats make thicker, firmer and shinier beads.

Grocery bags made of brown recycled paper are just great for this purpose. The beads will appear wooden, and have sort of vintage look. Wallpapers are also really good for this. But, any other type of paper will do. You could also buy special Chinese papers designed especially for this purpose, called Washi or Chiyogami.

Of course, you could be even more creative, and design your own material. For example, you could use water colors or nail polish or anything you can think of. Just remember you should apply color only on outer edges of your triangle, because only those parts will be finally visible. You could also use colorful napkins, and, in this case, get really amazing designs simply and easily. In any case, you will certainly enjoy in this lovely activity.