I fell in love with some of the beautiful bubble wands I saw online recently, and I was surprised to find they were so simple to make. Obviously, support local and independent artists when you can, but if you’re not in a position to or you’re feeling crafty, here’s an idea for making your own.
I love any time I can make gifts of my own. In a world of overconsumption, excess packaging, and one-click gifts, I think it’s special to be able to give somebody something unique and homemade. This would also be a great project to do with kids. Depending on ages, they may need varying levels of help, but they can at least choose beads and thread them. We have long been fans of making our own bubble solution, mainly for avoiding those plastic bottles. Try upcycling an old glass jar and making a batch for yourself! A bottle of solution (or at least a recipe card) would be great to include with a bubble wand you are gifting.
In an attempt to learn how to make the 60-second “shorts” on YouTube, I tried to squeeze this one into a quick video. Here are some more details:
Materials:
—wire (Sadly, the wire I used did not list the gauge. I think I picked it up at a yard sale years ago. My guess is 20 or 21 gauge, since I do have a 19 gauge wire that is labeled and is too thick for me to do the twisted effect.)
—beads (Obviously, these need to have holes for threading. We loved having the excuse to visit our local bead shop. (Look for one in your area-you’d be surprised where these are tucked in!). Some beads were a super snug fit, but I also didn’t want them to be too loose. You may want to bring along a sample of your wire to check. Just remember to double it over first if that’s your plan.)
—pliers/wire cutters (The wire only needs to be cut once. Mostly I need small jewelry-type pliers to twist and shape the wire.)
Instructions (or, at least how I made mine):
–Measure 10″ of wire and then DOUBLE it over on itself.
–Cut 20″ of wire total.
–Twist the doubled-over wire for its entire length.
–Use small pliers to form a spiral-like loop on the doubled-over end. This will be the base of the wand.
–Start threading beads! Thread about 10 beads, depending on preference and the size of the beads.
–Leave enough wire to form the bubble-blowing circle loop at the top.
–Leave a small bit of excess wire and use the pliers to twist it around the base of the loop.
–Squeeze the wire to tuck in any pointy bits.
–Adjust and bend as desired to create the wand shape you’d like.
–Enjoy!
TIP: Wipe down the wand after use to prolong the life of the wire.
I hope this post can provide some inspiration for making your own bubble wands!
Bubble wands make great gifts for any time, but here are some ideas:
–A child’s birthday (especially those old enough to blow bubbles and not consume the bubble solution)
–An adult’s birthday, because adults deserve fun bubble-blowing time too!
–Before a trip to the beach
–An alternative activity on 4th of July
–Wedding favors or to use as a send-off
–In memory of a loved one – bubbles can be a way for everyone (including children) to take some slow breaths and meditate on a loved one who has passed