Mastering Perler Beads: Comprehensive Guide for Novices!
Perler beads, also known as hama beads, melty beads, fuse beads, and nabbi beads, are small, round plastic beads with a hole in the center that have been delighting artists of all ages since 1981. Created in Cloverdale, California by Peter and Dee Dee Schneck, these versatile beads offer limitless design possibilities, from ornaments and coasters to 3D items and more.
To start your Perler bead journey, you'll need a pattern, beads, plastic pegboards, parchment paper, an iron, and optional plastic tweezers. Pegboards come in various shapes such as circles, squares, and hearts, and some can be linked together if they have plastic tabs on the ends.
Parchment paper, a food-safe, heat-resistant, non-stick paper, is essential for the ironing process. It not only protects your pegboard from the heat but also prevents the beads from sticking to the iron. You'll be pleased to know that parchment paper can be reused for multiple ironing sessions.
When it comes to choosing a pegboard, there's no difference between clear and coloured ones. However, using a clear pegboard allows you to see the pattern beneath more easily.
The process of creating with Perler beads is straightforward. First, you pick a pattern, choose a board and beads that correspond to the pattern. Then, you place the beads directly onto each peg on the board required to make the pattern. Starting the pattern placement in the center of the pegboard can make the process easier.
Once you've placed all the beads according to your pattern, it's time for the fusing process. This is done with a medium setting iron (no steam) and parchment paper is used to cover the beads on the pegboard. Ironing is done with a circular motion and gentle handling to avoid disturbing the beads underneath. Checking the edges while ironing is important to ensure all beads are melted.
Lifting the paper too quickly during the ironing process can cause unmelted beads to fall off or go flying, so take your time and be patient. The fusing process is repeated on the non-melted side of the bead design. When ironed properly, the beads will still have an open center.
Perler beads are recommended by occupational therapists for working on hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and grasp. They are an amazing kids' craft and also a fun craft for adults. In fact, the fun doesn't stop at home; Perler beads have even found a place in professional art and design.
National Perler Day, celebrated annually on August 8th, is a testament to the enduring popularity of these colourful beads. So why not join the Perler bead community and create your masterpiece today? Happy crafting!
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