Raw bisque fired clay beads are easy to make. They are inexpensive and suitable for a wide range of classroom projects. Students love this hands on activity.
Clay beads are very easy to make. They are either rolled in the palm of the hand or rolled out to make a clay coil, which is then sliced to make even cylindrical beads.
An inexpensive way to pierce the centre of the bead, is to gently push a moistened wooden skewer through the centre of the sliced coils. Cheap wooden skewers can be left in the beads as they will burn out in the kiln. This makes the project easy to manage and the beads easy to count.
Materials
- A block of clay
- Cutting wire
- Bat to place beads on
- A pack of skewers
- Kiln for firing
Timing
It does take a while to make beads this way, because you will need to allow them to dry before firing. Firing will take a few days depending on the style of kiln you have and your 'kiln roster ' within the school. Because beads are so small and light weight, it might even be cheaper to have them fired for you commercially . This can be done at your local pottery supplies company. If you choose this option there can be a delay, because the staff will fire the kiln when they have a full load to heat. If you are planning a beading project such as making rosary beads, leave at least a week between when you make the beads and expect to be able to use them in a creative project.
Using the Beads
When you are finished you will have attractive beads from which to create your projects. If you want a glossier look , the beads can be glazed or spray painted.
The articles Handmade Beaded Jewelry For Mother and How To Make Rosary Beads show you how to put your new found skill at the craft of bead making to good use.
