Make a Necklace With 20-Second Beads!

What You Do:

1. Have your teen look for magazine photos that are at least 6” on one side. Small patterns or solid colors in complementary colors work best.
2. Invite her to draw a long, skinny triangle that has a 1” base and comes to a point at 6". Cut it out.
3. Now, have her trace around the first triangle to make the rest. She'll need 7 triangles to make a bracelet, and up to 18 to make a necklace.
4. When your teen has made enough triangles, instruct her to apply glue to every part of each triangle (except the base).
5. Starting with the base of the triangle, show her how to wrap the triangle around a knitting needle and slowly wind it up. Make sure the point is glued down securely.
6. Ask her to remove the bead from the needle. There will be a hollow center for stringing the bead along.
7. Have your teen make the rest of the beads.
8. Next, have her cut about a 10” length of elastic, or whatever length she wants her jewelry to be. Allow a few inches extra to tie a knot.
9. Finally, have her tie a strong knot (double or triple-knot it) and snip off the ends of the elastic. It's ready to wear! Encourage her to wear the necklace to school, and wait for the compliments to come her way.