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How to Make Paper Beads

Step 3Rolling the Paper Bead

Rolling the Paper Bead
Take your needle, or toothpick. I recommend needle, as the string or thread you string them on (for varnishing) must be equal in width. Starting at the thickest end of the strip, start rolling it tightly around the needle. Using your nails to catch it in at first, ensuring to keep the paper central. Put a dab of glue at the end and press down on it for a few seconds to hold the bead in place. (liquid paper glue works best).
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6 comments
Oct 10, 2009. 2:48 PMsewpoke2 says:
I did thousands of beads several years ago and  used a thin long cotter pin (like a bobby pin only smaller like a needle)--a lot faster, neater, all around better way to curl the paper.  I also glued a wooden bead around the end to make it easier to  hold.  What I really wanted was someone to come up with a semi-automated way of doing it like with a hand crank or old cassette player or something and a vise?????
Dec 16, 2010. 7:32 AMdmccomb says:
I've seen children's beading kits that have a little stand with a hand crank for sale at craft stores and toy stores. They're made of plastic and fairly flimsy, but you might be able to figure out how to build one with metal that would be sturdier. I've also seen people using bobbin winders to make beads.
Nov 10, 2010. 8:56 PMgemtree says:
What about putting a wire into a screw gun and then gluing the paper on, turning on the screw gun? Vrooom!
Nov 30, 2010. 6:07 AMMsSunDragon says:
I have found info and a way to print papers plus this web site also shows how to make a bead roller using the cotter pin. It has pictures of one plus you can also get the directions from them .... web site is www.paperbeadcrafts.com .... from there go to the how to button on the dark blue bar at the top and then click on roll beads. Hope this helps those who are interested.

Mz. C. J.
Dec 29, 2009. 2:45 AMCaring Hands says:
Rolling the paper for these beads is the way they do it in Caring Hands program in Kampala,Uganda, Africa.They do it so well that people at first glance think they are plastic beads made in China but what a expression on their face when you say "These are recycled paper beads" the look is of surprise!!Try some from os at www.caringhandskampala.org and help change lives in Africa from the slums to decent living and getting the children into schools. Your support would be greatly supported. Thank you & Happy New Year
John & Carole
Nov 20, 2009. 10:04 PMphoebeh1 says:
excellent!! I love this idea. I;m gonna do it very soon..I have magazines all over my house. all I need it's the varnish..thanks
Aug 6, 2009. 9:30 AMdyrkar says:
This technic is also done in Quilling. The Art of Paper curling. There is special tool you can use to curl or roll your paper with. This is a neat idea! I never thought of rolling my own beads out of paper!
Jul 30, 2009. 7:16 AMSeanex says:
can u make better pictures of how to roll them

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Author:Mzuribeads
Mzuribeads present a collection of Jewelry and Loose Beads all handmade by a group of jewelers who live in Kampala, Uganda. The jewelers are paid a fair wage for all of their products. Mzuribeads is ...
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