Bracelet Beading Instructions
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Teacher pre-preps by making a loop on one end of the wire ahead of time (will make second loop after beads placed by student) to secure the charm. Instructions below)
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For beading portion, instruct students they are expected to make a pattern, not randomly choose beads.
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Emphasize to students to incorporate texture, shape, size and colors that are aesthetically pleasing.
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Discuss various pattern possibilities (ABC, AABC, ABBC, etc)
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Teacher’s decision, of course, but far less beads are spilled if students point to the beads and teacher hands them out.
Suggested bead numbers:
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K 2 bead choices
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Gr 1-3 3 beads
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Gr 4 -6 4 beads
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Have student lay out complete
pattern of beads along the outside
perimeter of plate (turned upside
down!)
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Encourage students to use the silver
beads (makes the jewelry piece
rock!)
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Older students can include further complexity with color theory. ie can choose beads according to a theme (warm/cool, complementary, analogous etc.)
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After beads are strung, teacher will make the finishing loops: To make the final loop and place charm, grip the end of the memory wire in the nose of your round-nose pliers and hold firmly. Rotate your wrist towards your body, forming a half loop in the wire. Place the charm on, and finish the loop.
