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How to Make a Beaded Jump Rope

The history of jump ropes go back to 1600 B.C. when Egyptians used them for jumping. In modern times, jump roping relates to recreation and health and are used by both children and adults. A hand-crafted jump rope is a project that many will enjoy making. Beaded jump ropes must use relatively lightweight beads, like those made from wood, to avoid being too heavy.

Things You'll Need

Colored lightweight wood or plastic beads Plastic lanyard cord (up to 10 feet long) 2 (4-inch) dowel handles with holes Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Choose plastic or wood beads (or mix them) to create this jump rope project. Avoid glass or metal beads for safety and weight issues. Have a generous supply of beads for this project so that colors can be distributed evenly.
- 2
  Choose a 7-foot rope for those 4 feet 11 inches tall or shorter. Use an 8-foot rope for those between 4 feet 11 inches tall and 5 feet three inches. A 9-foot rope works best for those above 5 feet 4 inches tall. For measurement purposes, the beaded cord for the completed jump rope should touch the floor when jumping and the handle tips should reach just below the shoulders (both arms held out at right angles to the body).
- 3
  String the beads in the color design on the properly measured jump rope. It may be necessary to hold both ends of the lanyard cord with the beads to see if it touches the floor properly (see guidelines in Step 1). When the right length of the beaded cord has been reached, make sure there is about 6 to 8 inches of cord left to secure the beaded rope to the dowel handles.
- 4
  Make any adjustments to the length of the beaded part of the jump rope, if necessary. Secure one end of the beaded jump rope to the wood or plastic dowel handle by slipping the cord through a hole at one end and make several knots with the top of the beaded cord. Do the same with the other end of the beaded cord.

Childrens Toys