- Tutorials, books and magazine articles offer information on where beads and findings can be purchased for making each project they promote. Authors are required to give this information so readers can easily locate the materials needed. Follow the recommendations the first time around if you are new to beading; you'll find it much more enjoyable that way. After you become more adept at working with the beads and tools, step out of your comfort zone and use other materials to make the design you just finished.
- Often a pipe cleaner can be used to hold the beads and offers a dimensional appearance to the beaded animal. Kids especially like this type of project, since it is easier for them to manipulate the beads and see instant results. These animals can be turned into pins or collectibles.
- Fire Mountain Gems has free patterns using graph paper and seed beads to create an array of designs, including animals. Some patterns are more intricate than others, though many can be done by children. It is a good way to promote hand and finger dexterity while accomplishing a craft project.
