Hello, Skip to My Lou readers! My name is Rachael and I’m an illustrator and blogger at Penelope and Pip.
I’m so happy to be here to share a cute summer kids DIY using all those Perler beads you have lying around (they seem to find their way into everything don’t they!). You can make these with Beados as well if you want to use a product that doesn’t require ironing.
This is a great rainy day project that will encourage kids to use their imagination and fine motor skills as well.
You could make some for all your friends who are away at summer camp and pop them in the post for a lovely surprise.
Supplies:
- Perler beads
- Perler peg board
- Iron
- Ironing paper
- Leather cord or waxed cotton cord
Beados is a product similiar to Perler beads. Beados use water to join the beads and would be more suitable for younger kids.
Step 1: Create the shape of your necklace using your peg board. You can create all sorts of shapes and designs using whatever colours take your fancy.
You could make squares, triangle, chevrons or even love hearts and flowers.
Step 2: This step should be done by an adult.
Preheat a dry household iron to the medium setting. Cover the beads with the ironing paper and gently iron the beads in a circular motion for about 10 seconds to fuse the beads evenly.
When ironed properly, the beads will still have an open center. This is important as you will be using the opening to attach your leather or waxed cotton cord.
Step 3: Once the design is cool, slowly peel off the ironing paper.
Lift your design from the peg board and turn the design over onto your ironing surface. Get an adult to cover the design with ironing paper and iron again for 10 seconds to fuse the back of your design.
Step 4: Thread your cord through the top bead of your design and tie with a knot to make sure your design doesn’t slip around the cord. Tie the ends off leaving enough room to pop the necklace over your head.
Now it’s time to make some for your friends to wear as well!
For more fun summer DIYs pop over and visit us at Penelope and Pip. You can also follow us on Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram.
Thanks for having me Cindy and happy summer!
We are wrapping up my fun summer series 30 days of fun crafts to keep kids active and entertained this summer! You won’t want to miss a day of these fun crafts for kids from some amazing bloggers! Please be sure to pay them a visit!
