This is a craft we have been making versions of for years. There is nothing super original about pony beads and pipe cleaners, but I still love the way these turned out! Everyone had fun making them, from little people to big kids (plus a grown-up or two). Threading pipe cleaners with beads is a super good small motor skill, plus the kids can work on their patterning and spelling their name. So many reasons to get out the beads!
Here’s what you’ll need:
This craft is quite easy. Just twist a bead at the end of the pipe cleaner before you start beading. I encouraged the kids to lay out their beads first, deciding on color patterns and placing their name in the middle. But everyone quickly found their own style. When you get to the end, leave about 3/4 of an inch of pipe cleaner to twist down and around the last bead to secure.
I can’t wait to set the table for Thanksgiving with these! I love incorporating things the kids have made when planning the table. (They would also make great gifts for family far away.) I love the one my 13-yr old made for me…she added the words creative and caring around the sides. I didn’t notice this right away, which made it all the more heartwarming. I love that girl!
xo Bar
What sweet sentiments from your daughter! I love the dotted flower beads mixed in too. I’ll be sharing soon on The Crafty Crow 🙂
hanks cassi!! i loved that sweet surprise, too. so nice when your kids appreciate you!! xo bar
SO CUTE… SO USEFUL… EVEN IF WE DON’T HAVE THIS HOLIDAY IN ITALY I’LL SHARE YOUR IDEA ON MY BLOG FOR CHRISTMAS. THANKS.
wow, thanks angela! so nice to know that these will be made in italy. xo Bar
These are fabulous! Absolutely love them. We already have some pony beads and pipe cleaners…time to go get some alphabet beads!
hope you get to make these, kerry. and the alphabet beads are always good to have around! xo bar
Thank you for this wonderful project! It was so easy even my 2-year-old helped (my 4-year-old did most of the work). We ended up using little jingle bells on the end which turned out so cute. And I just can’t wait to use them on my formal china. Our family is going to love something so personal for our Thanksgiving feast.
thanks for writing, jeramie! i love hearing that your 2-yr old could make this project, i’m so happy you did it. and the jingle bells is such a great idea! i love that. i hope you had a wonderful thanksgiving and that your family indeed enjoyed the special touch from your children. xo bar