Fabric and Paper Beads

CREATIVE REUSE PROJECT

Fabric beads are a fun and simple project with a slew of applications. If you don’t have fabric you can use thin paper (tissue paper, wrapping paper) and make paper beads. The fine motor practice benefits students’ handwriting, object manipulation, and attention to detail.

You will need:

Plastic straws
Scraps of colorful fabric
Colorful yarn or thread
Glue
Small paintbrush
Plastic dish
Beads or buttons
Bracelet clasps (optional)
Scissors
Wire (beading, floral, or any other wire that is flexible)

Applications Across Subjects:

Math	Measuring units (using rulers and other measuring tools to prepare materials) Measuring the lengths of beads, jewelry, etc. Geometry units (looking at different shape and size fabrics/papers to create different shape and size beads) Making patterns with the beads
ELA	How-To books (about making the beads) Non-fiction writing about beads- history, uses, different cultures Fiction writing
Social Studies	Study of beads, jewelry, the history and uses of beads and jewelry, beads and jewelry in different cultures
Science	The science of bead-making: where do the fabrics and papers come from, how are they made, natural vs. chemical dyes
Social & Emotional	Beads can be soothing, like a sensory fidget toy Beads can be a reminder of self-regulation goals Beads can be used to add to a long string every time students work together, help each other, are kind, etc. to show positive behavior over time. You could start a new string each month.