These small perler beads, or “melty beads” remind me of how I use to spend hours creating as a child. Now there are so many things that you can do with them, and they even make a bigger size perler bead for small hands.
Now that I have kids, and one that is not especially into crafts, these have helped inspire him. How you ask? Well, with Pokemon creations of course! B is obsessed with Pokemon, and once he realized that we could create all of his favorites he was hooked! Granted, I have to help with some of the larger designs, but he was able to complete the pokeballs once I set up the black center line.
What is so great about perler beads? Well, you can create regular sprites, ornaments, 3D versions, keychains, etc. Plus, all you need is beads, pegboards, parchment paper, and an iron.
As a parent, perler beads let your kid express their creativity. Also, it strengthens and develops their fine motor skills. You can incorporate different lessons with them. For instance, having them design letters, numbers, shapes, etc. and then you melt them together so they can see and hold their creation.
Perler beads are easily found at all craft stores, Wal-Mart, and Amazon. Keep an eye out for sales and coupons on regular priced items to keep the cost low. Joann’s also offers individual projects in their seasonal craft section. These are cheap and a way to stock up on additional pegboards.
Instructions:
- Snap pegboards together so that you have a design space.
- Place or arrange perler beads in the design that you wish.
- Cover design with ironing or parchment paper.
- Iron in a circular motion until the beads appear “wet” under the paper. I like to melt my beads fully together, so I iron a little longer.
- Wait for the paper to cool.
- Peel paper off.
- Gently put sprite/design off of pegboards.
- Do a happy dance!
Next Steps
Starting to get addicted? Me too! There are lots of design books on Amazon, or if you are looking for something more specific Google it!
For instance: Pokemon Perler Bead Template; Pokemon Perler Bead Pattern
I like to do more advanced designs, so I usually use crochet patterns or templates. These designs usually require having multiple interlocking pegboards, or one large pegboard.
