Reinforcing mini hama beads?

politoed 5/16/2023 06:50 am 510

I work only with mini hama beads and they get... really thin/frail. The bigger the design, the more 'floppy' they get. I've been wanting to make fursuit badges with them, does anyone have any suggestions of how I could reinforce them and what would be best? Especially the hole for where the clips go through (I've left about a 3x1 or 2x2 hole depending on the design)

My current options are:
Card backing - has a number of colour options but would mean the design isn't reversable.
Clear nail varnish - would strengthen but may be too shiny. would go through the holes in the beads and may ruin the front
Clear glue - same as the nail varnish

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politoed
Member

May 17, 2023 8:49 am

@Phosfate: I considered resin but I don't own a proper mask to use it cuz the fumes are toxic

I'll try the varnishes! I'm gonna try a transparent plastic backing too

Phosfate
Member

May 17, 2023 7:43 am

Is there a way to coat them with resin? Or will it just peel off/be too shiny?

They make matte and satin varnishes for acrylic paint and that might do it. If you try that, use multiple thin layers, and let them dry thoroughly before adding the next, or it can cloud.