“Write” names and messages by stringing beads on a bendable wire. Hang finished pieces in a window, string on a necklace or around a hat, pin to a bulletin board or display on a piece of matboard as a piece of art. When choosing beads, larger ones need heavier wire and more space.

Grade Levels

3–8

Procedure

1. Write a name or message on a piece of paper and use it as a guide to bend the wire into written words.

    

2. Bend wire in half for a 36-inch length (you’ll be working on double-thick wire). Make a twist in the bent end so the beads will not fall off.

    

3. Hold the loose ends together and thread through random colored Leave 1-1/2" free at the end and twist to hold beads in place.

    

4. Adjust the beads as needed. Any extra length can be used as a flourish at the end of the word.

    

National Standards

Content Standard #1 — Understanding and applying media, techniques and processes.

K-4

• Students use different media, techniques and processes to communicate ideas, experiences and stories.

5-8

• Students intentionally take advantage of the qualities and characteristics of art media, techniques and processes to enhance communication of their experiences and ideas.

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