Scrap clay: we all have it, and despair over good ways to use it; but here is a unique and fabulous way to turn your ugly scrap into astonishingly gorgeous pebble beads.

This simple, serendipitous technique is fun every time--long after you've mastered the basics, you'll still be delighted by the process--I've seen enough experienced clayers squealing with delight as they formed their beads to know!

This technique is embarrassingly easy, but does presuppose that you have a good variety of scrap on hand--so if you are a beginner, make sure that you have at least a fist-sized wad of odds and ends to devote to this project. This project presumes that you know how to pierce your work for stringing, if desired; the illustrated items are flat-backed cabs, and may be set unpierced in beadwork or metal holders.

The tutorial even includes a bonus mini-lesson on finishing your work!

This project requires very few tools and most likely just the materials you have on hand; and like all my tutorials, I offer online support for any questions you may have. So let's get scrapping!

Please note: the bracelet made with the pebbles is included for illustration purposes only--instructions for its construction are not included.