Checkerboard Beads

by Laura Torres | More from this Blogger

21 Jan 2006 11:23 AM

Your boys will like these beads because if you use bright, bold colors, they won't look feminine at all. You can string them on a keychain or on a clip to hook to a backpack or belt loop, or string a few on a leather cord for a bracelet.

You will need:

Two contrasting colors Sculpey or Fimo Soft Smooth drinking glass or rolling pin Sharp knife Wire or skewer

1. Roll two logs of clay, one red and one black. Roll out a thin sheet of clay in the same colors, long enough and wide enough to go around the logs.

2. Wrap the black log in the red sheet and smooth the seam with your finger. Gently roll the log with the fingers of both hands to make it smooth and even. Do the same with the red log and black sheet. Trim the ends so the logs are the same size.

3. Cut the logs in half. Stack as shown.

4. With a drinking glass or rolling pin, Roll the bundle of logs on each side to square them and mush the clay together.

5. Put the square log in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Cut into sections with a knife. Poke a hole in the middle of the bead, or through the sides to make a hole. Bake according to the clay package directions.

To make the keychain, poke a hole in the middle of three beads, from top to bottom before baking. After baking, thread the beads on an eyepin. Bend the top of the eyepin at a 90-degree angle at the top of the beads. Trim the eyepin so there is half an inch left. Bend the wire into a circle. Attach to a keychain loop or clip and attach it to the belt loop on your pants.

Learn more about Laura Torres

Laura Torres is the best-selling author of many books for kids and teens, and a party planner. Check out her website at lauratorres.com.

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