Newspaper Mache Bead Necklace: DIY Guide

Making a newspaper mache bead necklace is a creative, low-cost craft project that turns old newspapers into stylish, lightweight jewelry. The beads are formed from a simple paste of flour and water wrapped around a core, then painted and sealed for durability. This guide walks you through the entire process, from making the paste to stringing your finished beads, so you can create a unique, eco-friendly accessory.

What You’ll Need

Newspaper (or other thin, absorbent paper like junk mail or tissue paper)
Flour (all-purpose works well)
Water
Bowl and spoon for mixing paste
Beading wire, cord, or string (e.g., cotton cord, leather cord, or elastic cord)
Scissors
Optional: Acrylic paint, paintbrushes, clear sealant (e.g., Mod Podge or clear varnish), toothpicks or skewers for making holes, beads or charms for accent

Step-by-Step

Prepare the paper strips: Cut or tear newspaper into strips about 1 inch wide and 6-8 inches long. The number depends on how many beads you want; roughly 10-15 strips per bead is a good starting point.
Make the paste: In a bowl, mix 1 part flour with 2 parts water (e.g., 1/2 cup flour to 1 cup water). Stir until smooth, with no lumps. The consistency should be like a thin pancake batter. If it’s too thick, add a little more water.
Create the bead core: Take a small piece of newspaper (about 2×2 inches) and crumple it into a tight ball. This will be the center of your bead. Make as many as you need for your necklace.
Wrap the first layer: Dip a paper strip into the paste, letting it soak for a few seconds. Wrap the wet strip around the paper ball, smoothing it down as you go. Continue adding strips, crisscrossing them over the ball, until you reach your desired bead size (typically 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter). Make sure the surface is as smooth as possible.
Add the hole (optional): If you want to string the beads later, insert a toothpick or skewer through the center of the bead while it’s still wet. Leave it in place until the bead is dry. Alternatively, you can poke a hole with a toothpick after the bead is partially dry (about 1-2 hours).
Dry the beads: Place the beads on a wire rack or a piece of wax paper. Let them dry completely. This can take 24-48 hours, depending on humidity and bead size. Turn them occasionally to ensure even drying.
Sand and shape (optional): Once dry, you can lightly sand any rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper for a smoother finish.
Paint and seal: Paint the beads with acrylic paint. You can use a solid color, or get creative with patterns. After the paint dries, apply a clear sealant (like Mod Podge or a spray varnish) to protect the beads from moisture and give them a nice sheen. Let the sealant dry completely.
String the necklace: Cut a piece of cord or elastic to your desired necklace length. Thread the beads onto the cord. You can add spacer beads or charms between the mache beads for variety. Tie a secure knot at the ends, or attach a clasp if you prefer.

Common Mistakes

Using too much paste: Overly saturated paper makes beads that take forever to dry and may become mushy. Wring out excess paste gently.
Not smoothing the paper: If you don’t smooth each strip as you apply it, the bead will have bumps and wrinkles. Use your fingers to press out air bubbles.
Rushing the drying process: Drying in a humid environment or in a thick layer can lead to mold or a soft core. Be patient and allow full drying.
Skipping the sealant: Without a sealant, the paint can chip and the bead can absorb moisture, losing its shape.

Tips

For a smoother bead, use thinner paper and apply more, thinner layers.
To speed up drying, place the beads in a warm, dry area (like near a heater or in a low oven at 150°F / 65°C for a few hours, but watch carefully to avoid burning).
Use a toothpick to create a hole if you didn’t insert one during wrapping. Do this when the bead is slightly damp, not fully dry.
Experiment with different paper types—tissue paper gives a smoother finish, while newspaper gives a more textured look.
If you want a more uniform shape, you can roll the bead between your palms while it’s still wet to round it out.

Troubleshooting

Beads are too soft or squishy after drying: This means they weren’t fully dry. Let them dry longer. If they still feel soft, they may have been made with too much paste or the paper was too thick. Try adding more layers of paper and paste, then dry again.
Beads crack: This can happen if they dry too quickly or if the paste was too thick. Try drying them more slowly and ensure the paste is smooth.
Hole closed up: If the hole closes, you can re-drill it with a toothpick or a small nail while the bead is still slightly damp. If it’s fully dry, you can use a small drill bit or a heated needle to make a new hole.
Paint won’t stick: Make sure the beads are completely dry and clean. You can apply a primer (like gesso) before painting.
Necklace string breaks: Use a stronger cord, like a waxed cotton or nylon, especially if the beads are heavy. Double-knot the ends and consider using crimp beads if using a clasp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of paper? Yes, you can use any thin, absorbent paper like tissue paper, wrapping paper, or even old magazines. Thicker paper like cardstock is harder to work with and may not mold as easily.

How long does it take for the beads to dry? Typically 24-48 hours, but it depends on humidity, bead size, and how much paste you used. Thicker beads take longer.

Can I make the beads waterproof? While you can’t make them completely waterproof, sealing them with a waterproof varnish or resin will make them water-resistant. Avoid submerging the necklace in water.

How do I make a hole in the bead? You can insert a toothpick or skewer through the center while the bead is wet, or poke a hole with a toothpick when it’s partially dry. For fully dry beads, you can use a small drill bit or a heated needle.

What is the best way to string the necklace? Use a flexible cord like nylon or elastic for easy threading. For a more natural look, use leather or cotton cord. Add a clasp for easy wearing, or make it long enough to slip over your head.

Can I use this technique to make other shapes? Absolutely! You can make ovals, squares, or even flat discs by shaping the paper and paste around different forms. Just let your creativity guide you.

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