Here is a small start to a simple beading idea. In the 1960's, a trend majorly amongst the free-spirited population was a fashion statement known as Love Beads. Your love beads can be made out of plastic, clay, wood, glass, or mixed together! Be creative, Be diverse, but above all, have fun!!!
Steps
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-String/Twine/Thread (doubled or single line)
-Wire (thin or thick)
-Hemp
-Clear plastic line or fishing line
-Ribbons (silk, fiber, synthetic, etc.
-String/Twine/Thread (doubled or single line)
-Wire (thin or thick)
-Hemp
-Clear plastic line or fishing line
-Ribbons (silk, fiber, synthetic, etc.)
-Stretchy cord (good for bracelets!)
-Other materials -
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Tips
- Love beads are usually just free form strung beads, there was no real pattern. Sometimes beads were combined with macramé, again it was up to each person as to how they knotted them together.
- The twine and the beads themselves are still available, although they have grown up and changed their names. Most craft stores carry beads and stringing materials, so a trip to a place like Michael's will give you most of what you need.
- Look for hemp twine. It is available in different colours.
- Look for crow beads, pony beads, and tile beads. These all have larger holes for the twine and are what was used back in the day.
- Be sure the beads have holes big enough for the twine! There are also smaller glass "E" beads, the original love beads, they are harder to find but come in some amazing colours.
- Wood beads are always apropos for hippie wear. In the hobby store you will likely find a few books and pamphlets describing how to make hemp macramé and beaded jewelry. They have instructions on how to make some simple and true to the era pieces.
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Warnings
- Try not to buy beads that don't fit with the string.
- this is a long process, so this could take patience.
- Don't hurt yourself on the needle.
Things You'll Need
- Beads and/or related items & knick-knacks
- Scissors
- Wire/Hemp/String, etc.
- creativity.