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Step 1
Understand the history of beads and Mardi Gras. Even if you have never seen a Mardi Gras bead or parade, understanding the history is not a difficult challenge. Mardi Gras originated in Mobile, Alabama in the 1800s but was quickly adopted by many other gulf coast cities. The most popular Mardi Gras celebration now belongs to New Orleans. Items are thrown from floats as a measure of celebration.
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Step 2
Know what the different colors of the beads represent. The most dominant color at Mardi Gras is purple, and it represents justice. Green stands for faith, and gold represents power. These three colors are intertwined in almost all Mardi Gras decorations, Krewe's, floats and throws. The Creole sister cities now share the great tradition of bead throwing along with all other Mardi Gras festivities. Krewe's or Mystic Societies throw beads with their emblems or themes on them. These have become the most prized beads.
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Step 3
Purchase authentic beads. Thrown beads in the 1960s were Czechoslovakian glass beads. However, due to rising costs and the probability of injury, glass beads were replaced with plastic beads around 1970. Glass beads are considered authentic beads and can be purchased at many New Orleans tourist shops, as well as boutiques.
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Step 4
Make beads. Many hobby stores sell the equipment you would need to make your own Mardi Gras beads. There are two kinds of beads. MOT beads and hand strung beads are as unique and different as their names. MOT beads, or molded on thread, are just that. The plastic is molded onto the thread. Hand strung beads are, beads that are strung on the thread by hand. Even though both are thrown, the MOT beads are the most common. Thus acquiring the nickname "thrown beads."
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Step 5
Decorate. Beads are no longer just available for Mardi Gras. If there is a time for celebration, there are beads that represent this event. Custom beads are available for almost any occasion. Beads can be bought in mass quantities to assist you in decorating for any event. These colorful creations can add a little jazz to any party.
