Creating remade newspaper jewelry is a unique and eco-friendly way to express your creativity while also contributing to sustainable fashion. By upcycling old newspapers, you can transform them into beautiful and one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry. In this article, we will explore the techniques involved in creating remade newspaper jewelry, providing you with all the information you need to get started on your own DIY newspaper jewelry projects.
Gathering Materials
Before diving into the techniques, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials for creating remade newspaper jewelry. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Old newspapers: Collect a stack of old newspapers. The more colorful and visually appealing the pages, the better.
2. Glue: Choose a non-toxic glue that dries clear. This will ensure that your jewelry pieces look polished and professional.
3. Scissors: Invest in a good pair of scissors that can easily cut through the newspaper pages.
4. Toothpicks or skewers: These will be used to roll the newspaper strips into beads.
5. Varnish or sealant: To protect your finished jewelry pieces and give them a glossy finish, you’ll need a varnish or sealant.
Creating Paper Beads
The foundation of remade newspaper jewelry lies in creating paper beads. These beads are made by rolling strips of newspaper tightly around a toothpick or skewer. Here’s how you can create paper beads:
1. Cut newspaper strips: Start by cutting long, triangular strips from the newspaper pages. The width and length of the strips can vary depending on the size of beads you want to create.
2. Apply glue: Take one end of the strip and apply a thin layer of glue. This will help secure the bead and prevent it from unraveling.
3. Roll the bead: Place the toothpick or skewer at the wider end of the strip and start rolling it tightly towards the pointed end. Apply a little more glue at the end to secure the bead.
4. Remove the bead: Once the glue is dry, gently slide the bead off the toothpick or skewer. You can make as many beads as you need for your jewelry project.
Designing Jewelry
Once you have a collection of paper beads, it’s time to design your remade newspaper jewelry. Here are a few techniques you can use:
1. Stringing: String the paper beads onto a thread, cord, or wire to create necklaces, bracelets, or earrings. Experiment with different bead sizes, colors, and patterns to achieve unique designs.
2. Wire wrapping: Use thin jewelry wire to wrap around the paper beads, creating intricate designs and adding a touch of elegance to your jewelry pieces.
3. Embellishments: Enhance your remade newspaper jewelry by adding other materials such as glass beads, charms, or pendants. This will add depth and visual interest to your creations.
4. Coating and sealing: To protect your paper beads from moisture and wear, apply a coat of varnish or sealant. This will also give your jewelry a glossy finish.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure successful results and create stunning remade newspaper jewelry, consider the following tips and tricks:
1. Experiment with different paper types: Don’t limit yourself to just newspapers. Try using magazine pages, book pages, or even colorful flyers to add variety to your designs.
2. Play with colors: If you want to add more vibrancy to your jewelry, consider painting or dyeing the paper strips before rolling them into beads. This will give your jewelry a unique and personalized touch.
3. Use different bead shapes: While rolling the paper strips, experiment with different shapes such as cones, cylinders, or even flat discs. This will add versatility to your jewelry designs.
4. Practice patience: Creating remade newspaper jewelry requires time and patience. Take your time to roll the beads carefully and allow the glue to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Conclusion
Remade newspaper jewelry is a sustainable and creative way to repurpose old newspapers. By following the techniques mentioned above, you can create unique and eco-friendly jewelry pieces that are sure to turn heads. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, DIY newspaper jewelry offers endless possibilities for expressing your personal style while contributing to a greener planet. So gather your materials, start rolling those paper beads, and let your creativity shine through your handmade newspaper jewelry.
