Paper Beads

[Craft Test Dummies]

Anyone got some paper jewelry ideas? Ways to take it to the next level? Craft Test Dummies want to know!

[Cindy Lietz, Polymer Clay Tutor]

I saw a cool demo once (crafttvweekly maybe?) where they rolled a paper bead in embossing ink then poured on a thick layer of embossing powder to make the beads look kind of glassy. Has anyone tried this? How about with that distressed embossing powder by Tim Holtz? That could give it a funky aged look.

[Craft Test Dummies]

I make mine by putting my beads on a bamboo skewer, and rolling them on a VersaMark pad (and embossing pad for scrapbookers, etc.) and then rolling them in (powdered) Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel. Then I hit 'em with the heat gun until it melts, constantly rotating the skewer so that the molten enamel doesn't shift to one side. I have then rolled them (while still warm) in gltter, mica powders, etc. I've found that if you use a colored embossing powder, it obscures the paper bead entirely. (Which can be OK, I just like to see the bead.) Otherwise, it looks just looks like a plastic bead. You can also incorporate micro beads, Angelina Fibers, metal leafing, and Mylar foils.
I've got photos of my "faux lampwork paper beads" on www.CraftTestDummies.com. Just put "paper beads" into the search bar and you should find a couple of posts and pics on that subject. Have fun!