Making your own jewelry is really great, and your whole family will enjoy in this interesting activity. Once you start with it, you will probably realize it is highly addictive, and it doesn't require special investments. And, you are free to use all types of materials. Being creative has many good qualities, and can even be therapeutic. Not to mention the fact that you can make really great things.

To start with, almost all materials you can imagine can actually be used for making beautiful and creative jewelry. So, why not make some beautiful paper beads. It sounds strange, but these little things are extremely simple and easy to make, and they are highly attractive, inexpensive and funny. All types of wallpapers, napkins, paper bags and magazines can be used for this purpose.

Except for papers, you will need craft knife and scissors, glue, polish, wooden or metal sticks, cutting mat, ruler, pencil and something with straight edges to cut against. You can also use your knitting needles instead of special sticks, or even bamboo barbecue sticks, why not. And a few softer brushes for applying glue and varnish. And that's it.

The first thing you should do is to cut one long triangle. The base of the triangle will be the width of your bead, and the length depends on your taste. Longer triangles make thicker beads. Just roll one triangle to get the idea how thick the bead will be. Of course, it will also depend on the type of paper you use, because thicker papers make thicker beads.

First, you have to apply some glue on the inner side of the triangle. Now you may start rolling it. Some people apply the glue on the whole triangle, while others prefer applying small portions on several different places while they are rolling. In any case, you should cover the last few centimeters of the triangle with glue.

Once you learn this basic shape, you may start experimenting with different shapes and lengths. For example, it is interesting to use two triangles, just partly overlapping, and roll them together. Or to use different types of materials together, in different colors. In any case, once the bead is done, leave it to dry before applying chosen varnish on it.

Grocery bags made of brown recycled paper are just great for this purpose. The beads will appear wooden, and have sort of vintage look. Wallpapers are also really good for this. But, any other type of paper will do. You could also buy special Chinese papers designed especially for this purpose, called Washi or Chiyogami.

Maybe you would like to use your imagination even more productively. In this case, decorate these triangles before rolling them, using water colors, nail polishes, glitters or whatever. In this case, remember that only the edges will be visible in the end, so paint accordingly. Combine different materials, put them all together and enjoy in your newly discovered creativity.