Beadwork is always a fun project for DIY-ers, but there are only so many times you can wear out your creativity with bracelet, daisy chain, anklet, and necklace designs. But if beads are your specialty, why not ditch the jewelry and look for ways to get innovative?

These cute bead projects are perfect for any occasion, whether you want to craft something for yourself or a friend. If you're looking for something to do with beads other than jewelry, here are some great beaded crafts to try.

Tetris, but make it beaded

Beads made of wood that are all squared off work great as Tetris blocks. If you want your project to resemble the popular video game, use colors and designs that mimic the falling game pieces. Follow the steps in this guide and glue them together, then attach a magnet behind every piece so they can be placed on your fridge or other magnetic surfaces.

Melted-bead suncatchers

These beautiful sun catchers can be made with only a few supplies and a few minutes of your time. Arrange a variety of colorful beads in a metallic muffin tray and cook them over a low flame on a grill. Place them in a bowl and heat them until they're completely melted together. Hang your beaded suncatchers against a window and watch how the light reflects off them! The colorful, mesmerizing specks of light will dance around the room as the light hits them.

DIY a cute little caterpillar

Beadwork projects don't always need plastic beads. Wooden beads, especially large and rounder ones, are more fun for children to play with and safer. This beaded caterpillar is the perfect project for little ones to try.

Make a necklace by stringing wooden beads around a colorful pipe cleaner and knitting or curling the ends to secure them. Add a smile to the topmost bead, and you've got a cute little caterpillar. For the body, try using green beads, and your caterpillar will look precisely like the one in Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar!

Order beads & jewelry supplies online

Ready to try your hand at these creative beaded crafts? Stock up on all the beads and jewelry supplies you’ll need only at ArtCove. Our online arts and crafts store carries a wide variety of plastic, wooden, and even acrylic beads at surprisingly affordable prices. Plus, you can always get great discounts if you buy beads in bulk.

Get in touch with us for further details on our craft supplies.