While looking for ideas for homemade fidget toys recently, I came across a brilliant trinket of Greek origin called “Komboloi”. These beads, called “worry beads” elsewhere, are a fidget toy designed solely for chilling out. They’re made from a variety of materials, making each set of worry beads unique. So, I had to try them. I’m way too curious, of course. And, I’m such a fidgeter that I was desperate for a toy to make.
I started with a very small one. Thirteen beads, in a loop not much bigger than my hand, and a cute homemade tassel to decorate. Since making it, I’ve become hooked. Whether it’s rattling along to music or sliding beads along while I focus on writing, I’m constantly picking it up to play with. I admit, focusing is super hard for me, but these have made a huge difference in the way I work now.
Since then, I’ve made a sturdier, bigger one, with chain rather than thin cord. However, today’s post will be covering that easy kind, made with a regular cord. If you’re a crafter, chances are it’ll be easy to get the bits and pieces needed for this project. If not, don’t worry. Most hobby stores will have them!
This project is well worth sharing with friends who struggle with focusing or benefit from fidget toys. It’s easy for beginners to make, so make a bunch and give them as gifts! Share your worry beads on social media with the hashtag #ConfoundedDIY, or post them in the comments below. I hope you enjoy, and I’ll see you next time!
An awesome fidget toy that's perfect for stress relief. Worry beads are really versatile. You can make them much smaller or much larger to suit your needs. If you have the pliers and other equipment, you can use a thin chain in place of cord, too. If you don't have a tassel or don't want one, that's okay! You can thread beads onto the loose ends, and tie those on instead.
Worry beads
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I made myself a set of these years ago… they also help during annoying traffic!
Mine are made of glass beads of all different shapes, colors, and textures. Because that’s what I had at the time (I’d bought an assortment of glass beads a while prior), but has the added benefit of additional interest with all of the differences to look at and touch. These assortments are still available, or some bead stores will have “open stock” beads so you can choose your own.
Oh glass beads would be beautiful for worry beads, the gentle sound of the glass clacking together would be especially soothing. Bead stores having open stocks are perfect for this sort of craft, too. Both are wonderful suggestions, thank you!