How to Make Three-Hole Mala Beads

Mala beads are the three-holed beads used in certain configurations of Buddhist prayer beads. The mala beads are used at the ends of the 108 children beads and connect the children beads to tassels of beads that hang down from the main circle. While you can buy mala beads already predrilled for use in making prayer beads, you can also make your own. Here are two methods for making your own mala beads.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Buddha (large) wooden bead
• Clamp
• Drill
• or
• Clay
• Skewer
• Toothpick
• Kiln

Using a preexisting bead

1. 
   Buddha beads strung together

   Place the Buddha bead in the clamp so that the holes are visible.

2. Drill into the side of the bead at a 90-degree angle to the existing hole. Drill only until you feel the drill enter the existing hole. Do not drill all the way through the bead.

3. Remove the drill and brush away any dust or debris left on the bead. It can now be used as a three-hole mala bead.

Make your own bead

4. Roll out a bead-size piece of clay until it is the shape you want.

5. Push the skewer all the way through the clay bead to make the first two holes. Remove the skewer and make sure you can see all the way through the hole.

6. 
   Make sure the holes through the bead are clear of clay and debris

   Turn the bead and insert the skewer into the side and into the hole made by the first insertion. Remove the skewer.

7. Slide the toothpick in all of the holes to make sure that they meet in the center and are clear of any clay or other debris.

8. Fire the bead in the kiln. When it is finished firing, it is ready to use in making a set of beads.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety glasses and gloves when working with the drill. If you don't have access to a kiln, you can buy clay that will harden in your oven or dry overnight.

Resources

• All kinds of beads
• beading supplies
• Clay and clay-working supplies