Threads 27: Birch Bark Beads

Birch bark used is quite easy to find. It is very thin, like paper, and peels off the trees naturally.

If the bark is too thick,  it is quite easy to take apart by loosening the layers and using your finger to pull the layers apart and make two layers.

Birch bark is good to work with as it is pliable and easy to fold. Birch bark does not absorb water and so is very useful for starting a fire. 

It can be quite brittle and because it does not absorb water, the only way to soften it is to warm it up. The best way to heat it is to use a hairdryer.

I suggest practicing with a piece of thick paper first, before using birchbark. Cut a few strips 11/2”x71/2”.

Prepare the strip by making folds 11/2. inch apart horizontally across the strip four times. 

Watch the video below for instructions. It’s our first instructional video, quite an amazing breakthrough for the Threads team!

Another way to make birch bark beads is to roll them up like rolling up magazines or newspapers. This would be easier for small children.