Children and beads go together rather like children and glitter, only with a better chance of ending up with something wearable. This mini jewellery kit contains a mix of wooden beads in pastel colours, in assorted sizes and shapes, plus elastic cord to string them on. There is no complicated method to learn, and nothing to buy before starting: the beads and cord are in the box, along with the instructions, and the design is entirely up to whoever is threading.
The soft pastel palette is easy on the eye, and because the beads come in a mix of shapes and sizes, children can combine them freely to create something that suits them, whether that is a tidy repeating pattern or a joyful free-for-all. The elastic cord means the finished pieces slip on and off easily, with no clasps to fiddle with. They can be made into bracelets, colourful necklaces or sweet ankle chains, so there is plenty of choice for a rainy afternoon, a birthday party or a quiet half hour.
A practical tip: threading is much easier with a darning needle without a tip, which is not included in the kit but is easy to find and makes getting the cord through the beads far less fiddly.
The kit is recommended for ages 3 and over, but it must be used under the supervision of an adult. It contains small parts that are a choking hazard, and the long cord is a strangulation hazard. Please keep it away from younger children and do not leave the finished jewellery on children while they sleep or play unsupervised.
- Wooden bead jewellery kit in pastel colours
- Contains wooden beads in assorted sizes, shapes and colours, and elastic cord
- Instructions included
- Can be made into bracelets, necklaces or ankle chains
- Recommended for ages 3 and over
- Warning: small parts (choking hazard) and long cord (strangulation hazard). Use under adult supervision
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is it for?
It is recommended for ages 3 and over, always with an adult supervising. The beads are small parts and the cord is long, so it is not suitable for children under 3.
What is in the kit?
Wooden beads in assorted sizes, shapes and pastel colours, and elastic cord, along with instructions. You will not need anything else to make a start, though a blunt darning needle makes threading easier.
What can we make?
Bracelets, necklaces and ankle chains are all possible. The elastic cord means the pieces stretch to fit, so there are no clasps to deal with. How many pieces you can make depends on the length of each one and how many beads you use.
Do I need a needle?
A needle is not included. The suggestion from the manufacturer is a darning needle without a tip, which threads the elastic through the beads easily. Younger children may find it simpler to thread the beads straight onto the cord, with an adult helping with the knots.
Is it safe for young children?
It is a children's craft kit with the usual safety markings, but it needs adult supervision. The small beads are a choking hazard and the long cord is a strangulation hazard, so please supervise throughout and do not leave children unattended with the materials or the finished jewellery.
Does it make a good gift or party activity?
It does. The kit suits birthday parties, rainy afternoons and small gifts, and the pastel colours work for most children. It is also a calm activity, which parents tend to appreciate.
