New Year and Paper Beads

The new year is around the corner.  I’m weighing what is next for my recycled paper beads.  As I have said before, there are a lot of more important things in this world than recycling some paper each year.  But this is something I enjoy.  The creative aspect and thinking through a project is good for me. (And I hope you.)

A fairly large map was in one of the magazines my Dad gave me.  There is a lot of black.  I’m considering making many black beads of different styles.  One issue is making a bead in black can go wrong so easily.  I simply can’t always see the lines as I put the thin, black paper on a toothpick.

I look at this paper and see so much potential.  I also see questions.  Will I be able to create something unique?  Will anyone be wearing this paper in the next year? How much time will it take to make interesting (dare I say beautiful) beads from such a large piece of black paper?   And the true ultimate question for all of us, What Will 2012 Bring?

Think Creatively,
Janet (janettalk)
www.etsy.com/paperchasejewelry

More on Paper Bead Shapes

When it comes to shapes of beads, I found this blog that includes bead templates.  I also thought it was very funny when I read how she thought she had come up with something original when she decided to make paper beads.  She then discovered, and I quote, “not so much.”  Carole Anne’s blog. Third pic down.  (and I can’t believe I am sending you to another’s blog, 😉 but seeing the template will be helpful to you.)

Yes.  Making paper beads is not an original idea for any of us.  However, finding these odd shaped beads is rare.  Also, making paper beads is absolutely not a “cookie cutter” art.  Each bead is different.  In a way, each bead is original.

I may try one of these shaped beads.  I’ll let you know.  In the meantime,

Think creatively,
Janet (janettalk)
www.etsy.com/shop/paperchasejewelry