Supersized, Classic Camp Fun

What makes a classic summer activity even better? Supersizing it! Creating friendship bracelets, lanyards and pony bead keychains are great activities and should be a part of every kid's summer. Actually, creating should be a part of every adult’s summer too, creating is cool. It is even better if it is budget friendly, quick and provides opportunities for more fun.

Pony bead inspired keychains can be supersized into fun pool noodle floats (or patio decorations)

Video here:https://youtube.com/shorts/VmLQ6LMOuXE?si=wLZxO9MU-KQJdhvV I would love to learn how to embed it

Pony beads,(Dollar store bag provides enough for about 6 lizards)

String (cotton twine, embroidery floss. Plastic lacing, any string will work)

pool noodles, 3-green, 2 pink, 1 blue (each noodle makes about 20 “beads”)

rope,(Harbour Freight,100 feet of anchor line, $4.99)

Electric, serrated knife or plastic pool noodle knife from the Dollar store, Scissors, ruler

If you have never made a pony bead keychain or it has been a long time, making a small scale animal is a good starting point. There are lots of pony bead patterns available online, however the lizard is a classic that can be made in any color combination. First count out 60 pony beads, (37 green, 21 pink, 2 blue for the eyes) and cut 4 feet of string.

Arrange the pony beads in the pattern.

Place the last tail bead on the center of the string. Put the left string through the bead, then put the right string through the bead to secure it at the center point of the string. Then put the next bead on the left tail of the string. Thread the right tail of the string through the same bead. Gently pull the ends of both strings until the bead is snug against the final tail bead. Continue adding tail beads.

Put the row of body beads on the left tail of the string. Thread the right tail of the string through the same beads. Gently pull the ends of both strings until the three beads are snug against the tail bead.

Put all six beads for the leg on the LEFT string, slide them next to the lizard body. Then thread the LEFT string only though the three body beads closest to the lizard body. The left foot is now made. Add all six beads for the right leg to the RIGHT string and thread only the Right string through the three beads closest to the body and pull gently. Now the right foot has been made.

Add the rest of the beads in the same way, including the front legs and the row containing the eyes. After the final “nose” bead, tie a square knot, add a loop for towing or hanging and your lizard is done!

Measure and mark 3 inch segments on each pool noodle. Using an electric knife, serrated knife or plastic pool noodle knife (safe for kids:) cut the pool noodle into “beads”. Measure 33 feet of rope, mark the center of the rope.

Arrange your pool noodle beads in the pattern. Then put the “final tail” bead on the center of the rope and follow the same directions for the pony bead lizard.

Create more super sized summer fun, like a fish. Any pony bead pattern can be supersized by following the same threading pattern.

Summer fun has been SUPERSIZED. Pool fun, party fun, fun to make, fun decorations!