SQUEEEEE! I have a tutorial published on SCS!

Paper Beads with DSP - Some of you may remember that I promised a tutorial several months ago for this fun project. It's taken a while because I couldn't share it until Beate had it posted on SCS, but here it is now! Be on the look out for my fancy fold tutorial as well!

Paper Beads are a fun way to use up scraps of DSP, and it’s not just for crafters, it’s a fun “mommy & me” project to do with the “littles” as well!

Supplies: Pretty Designer Paper, Toothpicks, Glue, Diamond Glaze, Bone Folder, Scissors/paper trimmer


NOTE: Diamond Glaze gives the paper beads a nice shiny/glassy look, however you could use Modge Podge, Shimmer Paint, or VersaMark and UTEE to finish the beads as well, anything that dries clearly could be used.

Step 1: Cut DSP into ½” x 4” strips


Step 2: “Curl” the DSP using your bone folder, this will help as you begin to wrap your beads.


Step 3: Put a thin strip of glue on one end of the DSP. You don’t need a lot of glue, but don’t skimp either, a thin line of glue on the last two inches should do.


Step 4: Beginning with the end with no glue, start wrapping the DSP tightly around the toothpick. The glue will ooze out as you get to that end, just wipe off excess glue. (Tip, you may want to keep wet wipe next to you to wipe any excess glue off your fingers)


Step 5: Place toothpick across a narrow container (SU Build a brad container used here) or poke the toothpick into a piece of Styrofoam if you have some.


Step 6: Continue rolling beads until you have the number you want.


Step 7: Place a quarter size dollop of Diamond Glaze (SU Crystal Effects used here) onto a disposal plastic “palette” (An old CD or plastic lid works great)


Step 8: Carefully roll the bead into the diamond glaze to coat, being careful not to get any onto your toothpick.
TIP: You can get really creative now, try wrapping metallic string/embroidery floss, sprinkling glitter, mini confetti, etc, on while the diamond glaze is still wet to give the beads some texture or added dimension.


Step 9: Once you have all your beads rolled allow them to dry (walk away, do the dishes, watch a movie, do not attempt to heat dry diamond glaze it just won’t dry looking right)


Step 10: After at least one hour come back and carefully slide your beads off your toothpicks.


Step 11: String your beads as you wish


Step 12: Use beads as a decorative element


Option 2, Step 1: Cut DSP into triangles 4” long by 1” across at the widest edge.


Option 2, Step 2: Roll as stated in steps 2 – 10 above starting with the one inch edge.


Option 2, Step 3: You’ll have long, tapered beads this way


Option 2, Step 4: String and use!