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DIY Bead Stringing

Beading activities have always been a favorite in our home. There’s something so satisfying about watching little hands carefully string one piece after another, fully focused on their creation.

But what if you don’t have traditional beads or string on hand? No problem!

My kids and I have experimented with all kinds of fun alternatives over the years. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or just want to mix things up, these DIY beading and threading ideas will spark creativity!

Gather your materials:

• String - using leather string or a shoe lace is helpful because the tip won't droop when the child is trying to put the bead on it. Or try wrapping a piece of tape at the tip of a different type of string.

• Beads - bigger beads with bigger holes to start, decreasing as they learn. My boys also enjoyed having different colors and types of beads to string. Also, when looking to buy beads or other materials, try to make them multi-purpose; search for beads that can be used to sorting, pouring, scooping, etc.

• Bowl

Cut a piece of string and tie a knot on one end. Choose some beads and string them on to see how many fit. You don't want to fill the string completely because it's nearly impossible to put the last bead on and your child won't be able to hold the string when he's done.

Place the string and the beads in a bowl, place the bowl in a tray and the tray on the shelf!

Presentation

1. Bring tray to the table and place bowl in front of you.

2. Take the string and point out where the knot is.

3. Take one bead and string it on while emphasizing where the knot is.

4. String the rest of the beads.

5. Hold both ends of the string to admire your work.

6. Slide the beads off back into the bowl and place the bowl back into the tray.

7. Stand up, push your chair back to the table, and return the tray to the shelf.

Variation

Types of string:
-shoelace
-leather string
-yarn
-pipe cleaner
-an old necklace
-ribbon
-twist ties
-floss
-fishing line
-strips of fabric
-strings from an old sweater

Types of beads:
-noodles
-buttons
-cereal (cheerios)
-straws (cut up in smaller pieces)
-bottle caps (with holes drilled into them)
-paper clips
-melty beads
-small pieces of felt (punch holes through them)

Buy It Instead

This is a nice Melissa & Doug set that we use to own. I still find some of the pieces from time to time around the house!

Etsy has some great options, like this wooden beehive and leather string set.

Pony beads are a classic. But make sure to check out all the different varieties of beads here too!