Colonie Central High School Art Gallery

fall 2011 

Crafts - Mixed Media and Fabric and Fibers (Recycled Paper Bead Jewelry)

In this Crafts - Mixed Media and Fabric and Fibers art class taught by Thomasa Nielsen at Colonie Central High School students were involved in a jewelry and fashion accessories unit. They learned how to make paper beads and had to make one additional item of jewelry that used paper beads as a component. Featured here are some of the finished pieces of jewelry that utilize the paper beads that the students made. The paper beads are the larger beads in each design. The students took glossy magazine paper, cut it into long triangular strips, crimped the widest end and then rolled them into a tight bead that they glued together at the end. In the process they did a little recycling. And most people can't tell the difference between the paper beads and the regular store bought ones until the beads are pointed out. In addition to making the jewelry and fashion accessories, students learn how to display the finished products.