This is a sequin necklace made of paper. You start by cutting out the paper one by one to create original sequins.
The paper used is the original dyed paper. However, it is simple. Thick Japanese paper or drawing paper is painted on both sides. The unique hand-dyed gradation of shades creates sequins with different expressions one by one. These individual differences in color give a variety of expressions when made into a necklace.
Once the paper sequins are completed, it is a simple task to thread them alternately with beads. It takes a bit of patience, but I was impressed by the concentration of the child here. My daughter, who had just turned six at the time, completed the necklace in a few days. She took her time and was patient, resting when she got tired.
I think the combination of plain white paper and colorful beads is also wonderful. The colors of paper, patterns, types of beads, and variations are endlessly conceivable.

Instructions for making

Step 1. Punching Out the Paper

Punch out the paper with a hole punch. The hole punch used here is a 5/16 inch (8 mm) punch, which is slightly larger than a regular one.

Step 2. Punch Holes for Beads

In the center of the paper that has been punched out in a circle, use a needle to make a hole small enough for the needle to pass through. This completes the paper sequins. Doing this in advance will make it easier to thread the sequins and beads alternately later.

Step 3. Thread Paper and Beads onto yarn

Thread paper sequins and beads alternately. One small part at a time. This is a process that exercises fine finger movements and concentration.

Step 4. Finish by Tying

Make it as long as you like, and tie it tightly at the end to complete.

Material Variations

Our first project was sequins made from felt fabric. We used a leather punch to cut out circles of felt and threaded them alternately with beads. The result is a soft felt necklace.
However, it’s a bit difficult to cut out the felt with a punch for leather punch. I thought about whether there was an easier way to do it, and came up with the method introduced here, using paper and a hole punch. But, there is a catch: cloth is more durable, while paper is weak against water. I would like to continue to think about an easier way to make them with cloth or felt.