DIY Magazine Paper Bead Jewelry Guide

Turn your old magazines into stunning jewelry with this complete guide to making paper beads. Here's what you'll learn:

Quick Overview:

• Roll magazine strips into beads for necklaces, bracelets, and earrings
• Basic supplies: magazines, scissors, glue, toothpicks, wire/thread
• Projects take 30 mins to 3 hours
• Perfect for beginners, no special skills needed

Project	Time	Skill Level	Materials Cost
Bracelet	1-2 hrs	Beginner	Under $10
Necklace	2-3 hrs	Intermediate	Under $15
Earrings	30-60 mins	Advanced	Under $5

What Makes This Worth Your Time:

• Free/cheap materials you already have
• Eco-friendly way to reuse magazines
• Creates unique, customizable jewelry
• Great for gifts and craft projects

Basic Steps:

1. Cut magazine pages into triangles
2. Roll strips around toothpick
3. Glue and seal
4. String into jewelry

Want your beads to last? Seal them with Mod Podge, spray sealant, or varnish dip. Each method has pros and cons covered in detail below.

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What You Need

To make paper bead jewelry, you'll need some basic supplies. Here's what you should gather:

Must-Have Items

• Old magazines or colorful paper
• Scissors or craft knife
• Ruler and pencil
• Glue stick or white craft glue
• Toothpicks or bamboo skewers
• Thin wire or beading thread
• Jewelry findings (clasps, earring hooks, etc.)

Most of these are probably already in your home. That's what makes this craft so budget-friendly!

Extra Tools

Want to step up your game? Here are some optional tools:

Tool	Purpose	Est. Price
Paper bead roller	Faster bead rolling	$10-$15
Rotary cutter	Cut multiple pages at once	$15-$20
Cutting mat	Protect your work surface	$10-$15
Beadsmith Sticky Bead Mat	Keep beads in place	$11.99

Safety First

When using sharp tools, always cut away from yourself. If kids are involved, use child-safe scissors and keep an eye on them.

Sealing Options

To make your beads last longer, try sealing them with:

• Mod Podge
• Marine varnish
• PC-Petrifier Water-Based Wood Hardener

The PC-Petrifier is known for making beads super hard.

"Paper beads are awesome, I love making them, and they are a great way to quickly use up old magazines or junk mail – not to mention there are endless ways to actually use them + different things you can make with them!"

Now that you've got your supplies, let's get ready to create some unique jewelry!

Setting Up Your Work Area

A well-organized workspace is crucial for making paper bead jewelry efficiently and safely. Here's how to set up your area for optimal results:

Arranging Your Supplies

Put your materials within easy reach:

Item	Placement
Paper strips	Shallow tray
Glue	Arm's reach
Rolling tools	Next to dominant hand
Scissors	Near paper strips

Keep beading trays on the table. For multiple colors, use rolling carts with labeled drawers.

Keeping Your Table Clean

Protect your work surface:

• Cover with newspaper or disposable tablecloth
• Use a cutting mat
• Keep a small trash bin nearby

Create a simple drying station:

1. Build a frame with PVC pipe or wood scraps

2. Add a top bar to hang bead strands

3. Place a drip tray at the bottom

This setup protects drying beads and contains mess.

Don't forget comfort! An ergonomic chair can save your back during long work sessions.

Making Basic Beads

Picking and Cutting Pages

Choose magazine pages with eye-catching colors and patterns for unique beads. Start with a large image - it's easier to work with.

Cut long triangular strips:

• Strip width = bead length
• Strip length = bead thickness

For a 1-inch bead, cut a triangle 1 inch wide at the base. 4.5-inch strips make skinny beads; longer strips create fatter ones.

Use sharp scissors or a craft knife with a ruler. For bulk cutting:

"Use a rotary cutter to cut a stack of 10-12 magazine pages at an angle for quicker preparation of strips."

Rolling and Gluing Beads

Here's how to roll your beads:

1. Place tape at the wide end of your triangle

2. Put a toothpick or paper bead roller on the tape

3. Add small dabs of craft glue along the strip

4. Roll from the wide end to the point, keeping the strip centered

Roll tightly and evenly for a smooth finish. Secure the end with glue.

Step	Action
1	Tape wide end
2	Position rolling tool
3	Apply glue to strip
4	Roll tightly and evenly

Let beads dry for 20-30 minutes (may vary based on glue).

"I assure you, you'll be surprised at how sturdy a paper bead is." - Amy Anderson, Author

Once dry, your beads are ready for jewelry-making. Don't worry if your first few aren't perfect - you'll improve quickly.

Making Different Bead Types

Let's dive into creating various bead shapes and sizes to spice up your jewelry.

Different Bead Shapes

You can make beads in different shapes by changing how you cut the paper:

1. Bicone Beads: Cut isosceles triangles. For a 1-inch bead, make the base 1 inch wide. Strip length affects thickness - 4.5 inches makes a fatter bead.
2. Tube Beads: Use rectangular strips for cylindrical beads. Great for spacers or focal points.
3. Teardrop Beads: Cut right triangles for this unique shape. Adds variety to your pieces.

"Paper beads are awesome, I love making them, and they're a great way to quickly use up old magazines or junk mail." - Original author

Changing Bead Sizes

Adjust bead size by changing your paper strips:

Strip Width	Strip Length	Resulting Bead
Narrow	Short	Small, thin
Wide	Long	Large, thick

Size Variation Tips:

• Use thicker paper for chunkier beads
• Try different paper types (magazines, catalogs, scrapbook paper)
• Use an electronic cutter for precise cuts

For a pro touch:

1. Glue fancy paper to the end of a plain sheet
2. Cut 0.5-inch wide strips
3. Roll as usual

This creates beads with decorative ends, like "Midas beads" with gold tips.

Protecting Your Beads

After making your paper beads, you need to protect them. Here's how to seal them properly:

Picking a Sealer

You've got three main options:

1. ModPodge: Easy to use, covers well. But it's slow and doesn't protect the inside.
2. Spray sealant: Quick, but can be uneven. Use it outside.
3. Varnish dip: Covers inside and out. Can be messy and costly.

Here's a quick comparison:

Sealer	Good	Bad
ModPodge	Even coverage, safe indoors	Slow, doesn't coat inside
Spray sealant	Fast	Uneven, flammable
Varnish dip	Full coverage, glossy	Messy, pricey

Using Sealers

How to apply each type:

ModPodge:

• Brush on two coats
• Let it dry between coats
• Find a safe spot to dry

Spray sealant:

• Make a drying rack
• Spray outside
• Use multiple light coats

Varnish dip:

• String beads on fishing line
• Dip the whole strand
• Hang to dry, separate beads after an hour

One crafter shared:

"I think this method is way easier, and quicker, especially if you're sealing a lot of beads at once."

They can seal 125 beads in 5 minutes (not counting drying time).

Pro tip: Want extra shine? Try Minwax Polycrylic or Diamond Glaze (Judikins). They make beads hard and shiny.

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Making Your Jewelry

Let's turn those paper beads into wearable art. Here's how to create bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.

Bracelets and Necklaces

1. Pick your string

Material	Use	Pros	Cons
Elastic	Bracelets	No clasp needed	Less durable
Leather cord	Necklaces	Stylish	Needs clasp
Waxed cotton	Macrame	Strong	Limited colors
Memory wire	Both	Holds shape	Can be stiff

2. Design it: Lay out your beads first.

3. String 'em: Thread about 20 beads for a bracelet.

4. Finish up:

• Elastic bracelets: Knot and glue.
• Necklaces: Add clasps or adjustable knots.

Tip: Use small spacer beads for a polished look.

Earrings

1. Pick a base: Hook or stud findings.

2. Choose beads: 1-3 per earring.

3. Put it together:

• Hooks: Thread beads on eye pins, loop, attach.
• Studs: Glue bead to base.

4. Add sparkle: Try small metal or glass beads.

Quick idea: Make tulip-like earrings with Fireball Fuchsia™ and Plasma Pink™ beads on silver hoops.

Fixing Common Problems

Making paper bead jewelry can be tricky. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Fixing Uneven Beads

Uneven beads can make your jewelry look messy. Here's how to avoid this:

• Cut your paper strips carefully with a ruler and sharp scissors
• Roll the beads with steady pressure
• If a bead is still uneven, trim it with scissors

Pro tip: Practice on scrap paper first.

Working with Different Papers

Different paper types can affect your beads:

Paper Type	Problem	Solution
Thin	Hard to roll	Use more glue, roll tightly
Thick	Bulky beads	Use less glue, apply more pressure
Glossy	Doesn't stick	Roughen surface, use strong glue

For stubborn papers, try this:

"I wrap the glued bead with waxed paper and a rubber band. The wax keeps everything from sticking. It takes time but works well."

New Ideas to Try

Want to make your paper bead jewelry pop? Let's explore some fresh ideas.

Mixing Colors and Patterns

Play with colors and patterns to transform your jewelry:

• Color wheel combos: Pair yellow and violet for bold looks. Or try yellow-orange, blue-green, and red-violet for a lively mix.
• Nature-inspired: Create ocean-themed necklaces with blue and green beads. Or use reds and oranges for sunset bracelets.
• Ombre effect: Arrange beads from light to dark shades of one color.
• Pattern mixing: Alternate striped beads with solid ones in complementary colors.

Holiday and Event Jewelry

Make special occasion jewelry:

1. Christmas Ornaments

Create snowflakes with white and silver beads. Or make mini Christmas trees using different-sized green beads.

2. Valentine's Day

Craft heart-shaped beads in pink and red. Mix with white beads for a candy-like look.

3. Fourth of July

Design a red, white, and blue necklace. Add star-shaped beads as focal points.

4. Birthday Gifts

Use the birthday person's favorite colors. Spell their name with letter beads.

Occasion	Bead Colors	Design Ideas
Christmas	Green, Red, White	Trees, Snowflakes
Valentine's Day	Pink, Red, White	Hearts, Alternating patterns
Fourth of July	Red, White, Blue	Stars, Stripes
Birthdays	Favorite colors	Names, Age numbers

Taking Care of Your Jewelry

Want your handmade paper bead jewelry to last? Here's how to store and clean it:

Storing Your Jewelry

Keep your paper bead creations safe:

• Use a cloth-lined box
• In humid places? Ziplock bags + anti-tarnish strips for silver/copper
• Hang necklaces
• Pair up earrings in small spaces

"A velvet-lined box is best. It keeps air out, which helps your beads stay in top shape." - Jewelry Pro Tip

Keeping Jewelry Clean

Keep your beads sparkling:

• Quick wipe after wearing
• Stubborn dirt? Soft toothbrush + mild soap
• Don't soak beaded pieces
• Air dry before storing

Cleaning no-nos:

• No harsh chemicals
• Skip ultrasonic cleaners
• Avoid rough stuff

Pro tip: Remember the 5 S's. Don't wear your jewelry when you:

1. Sleep
2. Shower
3. Swim
4. Sweat
5. Spray (perfume, etc.)

Do This	Why?
Take off before bed	No tangles or oil transfer
Keep it dry	Protects paper beads
Products first, then jewelry	Keeps it clean
Clean gently, often	Keeps it shiny

"For delicate bead-woven pieces, skip the water. Just use a polishing cloth to gently wipe them down." - Meredith Steele, Beadwork magazine Technical Editor

More Things to Make

Paper beads aren't just for necklaces and bracelets. Here's what else you can do with these colorful recycled gems:

Other Jewelry Types

Paper beads work great for:

• Earrings (simple dangles or chandeliers)
• Anklets (perfect for summer)
• Rings (statement pieces with large, flat beads)

Quick earring project:

1. Pick 2-3 paper beads per earring
2. Thread onto headpins
3. Add small glass beads for sparkle
4. Attach to earring hooks

"For delicate bead-woven pieces, skip the water. Just use a polishing cloth to gently wipe them down." - Meredith Steele, Beadwork magazine Technical Editor

Group Projects and Gifts

Paper bead making is great for parties or craft nights:

• Mother's Day gifts: Flower-inspired jewelry sets
• Holiday ornaments: Beads strung into festive shapes
• Party favors: Matching bracelets for events

Try this unique group project:

Beaded Vase Wrap

Materials	Steps
Clear glass vase	1. Make ~1000 paper beads
Fishing line	2. String 30 beads at a time
Clear seed beads	3. Add 1 seed bead every 4th paper bead
Hot glue	4. Wrap strands around vase
Mod Podge	5. Secure with hot glue
	6. Seal with 2 coats of Mod Podge

This turns leftover beads into a stunning centerpiece.

Home Decor Ideas

Paper beads can jazz up your home:

• Wrap around plain picture frames
• String into garlands for holidays
• Use as colorful filler in clear glass bowls

Easy drink markers for your next party:

1. Thread 3-4 beads onto thin wire
2. Twist ends to form a loop
3. Slip over wine glass stems

The possibilities are endless. Get creative and have fun!

Wrap-Up

Making paper bead jewelry from magazines is fun and cheap. Here's what to remember:

• Cut precise triangles
• Use 200 gsm cardstock for round beads
• Roll from the wide end
• Seal for strength

Sealing Method	Good	Bad
ModPodge	Even, gentle	Slow (2 coats)
Spray	Fast	Uneven, outdoor only
Varnish dip	Full coverage	Messy, pricey

Next Steps

To level up:

1. Try new papers

Mix it up with scrapbook paper, gift wrap, or fabric.

2. Get creative

Make earrings, anklets, or home decor.

3. Join the crowd

Find other crafters online for ideas.

4. Get organized

Use clear boxes like ArtBin Prism for easy access.

5. Learn new tricks

Play with different bead shapes and sizes.

FAQs

How to make a necklace out of magazines?

Want to turn old magazines into a cool necklace? Here's how:

1. Pick your pages

Choose colorful magazine pages with eye-catching patterns.

2. Cut and roll

Cut long triangles from the pages. Roll them tightly around a toothpick, starting from the wide end.

3. Seal the deal

Glue the edge to keep the bead together. Once dry, coat the whole bead with Mod Podge for strength.

4. String 'em up

Thread your dried beads onto a string or wire. Mix in other bead types if you want.

Step	Pro Tip
Cutting	Use a ruler for even triangles
Rolling	Keep it tight for a neat look
Sealing	Two thin coats > one thick coat
Stringing	Mix up bead sizes for pizzazz

There you have it - a unique necklace from your old mags!