Fabric Beads are a fun project to do.
A strip of material 16" long x 2" wide makes a nice bead.
A strip of material 16"x7" will make 6 beads.
The first cut will be on an angle on the 16" side of material. Cut from the tip (16" side)to the other end 1" in on the 7" side of material. The next cut will be from the 7" side (where you just cut to. This will for a point) and in 2" at the other end. This will give you a triangle 16" long and 2 inches wide one end with a point at the other end.
Keep cutting in this way alternating each end so there will be a point and a 2" strip for each bead.
Spray the strip with basting spray. I now glue a 1/4 seam on the 2" end. This just secures the piece before rolling. I like to use this glitter glue but can use anything.
Roll the beads as tightly as you can around a knitting needle. It will come off quite easily later. I like to do 3 to a needle.
A finished rolled bead. Secure the little end with a bit of glue.Now to make them water proof use this product.
YOU CAN WASH IT CRAFT GLUE.
Don't over do it as it will take to long to dry.
In Australia it is available at Spotlight.
When using this glue you can also add your glass beads or glitter when it is wet.
Other wise you can glue them in place later with craft glue.
I place the needles in a styrene ball in a glass to dry.When totally dry spray with vanish. You can paint the vanish on but spraying is so fast.
When dry you can use the beads in a number of way.
They look nice grouped together or made into tassels for scissors or phones. Or just as a decoration on bags or notebooks.
I am going to make a head piece with some when I get time.
I hope you enjoy this tutorial.
Have fun
Delia
(c)
