CREATIVE REUSE PROJECT
Fabric and Paper Beads

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 |
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ELA |
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Social Studies |
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Science |
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Social & Emotional |
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Instructions
- Cut straws approximately two inches long.

- Cut fabric into rectangles; the width should be the same as the cut straw.

- Pour some glue on a your plastic dish. Brush glue on fabric strip. Saturate.

- Roll your fabric strip against the straw. You can knead the piece to make it tighter.

- Take your yarn and roll around the bead. Brush over with glue again.

- Cut leftover straw from the bead.
