Make A Beaded Headband

Make a Beaded Headband is a fun and stylish bead craft for kids and teens. Create one in your favorite colors to match school outfits, party looks, or holiday themes. This easy craft also makes a thoughtful handmade gift for a special friend.

Supplies

• Pony beads in your chosen colors
• 5 yards black 1 mm or 2 mm round elastic
• White glue
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Decide on your color pattern before you begin.
2. Cut a length of elastic that will be long enough to go around the head, with extra length for tying at the end. Since head sizes vary, the exact amount of elastic and number of beads will depend on the person wearing the headband.
3. Put a small amount of white glue on both cut ends of the elastic to stiffen them. Let the glue dry completely.
4. Slide the first two beads to the middle of the elastic.
5. For the next row, string 1 bead in your main color, 1 bead in a contrasting color, and 1 more bead in your main color onto one side of the elastic.
6. Take the other end of the elastic and thread it back through those same three beads in reverse order. Pull both ends snug so the beads lock into place.
7. Keep repeating the pattern, adding each new row the same way, until the beaded strip is long enough to fit comfortably around the head.
8. To finish, form the strip into a circle. Lace the elastic back through the first few beads, tie a secure knot, and add a small drop of white glue to the knot. Let it dry, then trim away any extra elastic.

Fun Facts

People have been making and wearing beads for thousands of years. Some of the earliest beads were made from shells, stones, teeth, and bones. Ancient Egyptians also used beautiful beads made from materials like faience and carnelian.

Patterns, Templates and Printables

This project does not require a printable template, but you can display a sample bead pattern or color chart nearby to help kids plan their designs.