FROM SCRAPS TO SOFT ADORNMENTS

Pretty fabric from past projects or old clothes and bedding can be made into textured beads and strung together to create jewellery

SCRAPS OF MATERIAL and a little glue are all that is needed to make these layered beads; each one easy to construct in only a few minutes. The resulting shape is organic and textural; perfect for threading together to make a unique piece of jewellery in contrasting tones.

To make a bead, a piece of fabric, approximately 7in (18cm) long, is cut into a thin wedge, or triangular, shape. Placed on a flat surface, pattern side down, small dots of glue are squeezed all over the fabric, starting 1in (2.5cm) from the short, straight edge and working down. A knitting needle or skewer is then placed along the short edge and rolled downwards. Care is taken to keep the roll at an even tension. The top section of the fabric is left without glue, so that it does not stick to the needle.

As the fabric tapers, the shape of the bead is formed, becoming bulbous in the centre. A little extra glue may be needed to secure the end firmly in place. The bead is then slipped off the needle and put aside to dry, turning it occasionally to ensure it does not stick to the surface. Experimenting with different fabrics and altering the width and length of the strips will create longer or more rounded beads. Any fraying can be trimmed away with scissors or left to add to its charm.

Once dry, the beads are threaded onto a length of ribbon or strip of pretty fabric, using the bodkin needle, to be worn as a bracelet or necklace, or given as a gift.

“I’ll give my jewels for a set of beads”

William Shakespeare, Richard II