Perler beads, hama beads, melty beads – what do you call them at your house? At my house we just call them fun. These tiny plastic beads are not just for kids, adults will have crafting with them all winter long too. Keep reading for 3 different DIY Perler bead ideas that make perfect Christmas gifts.

Stock stuffings with these adorable DIY melty bead keychains or encourage the kids to make a batch for their friends. Gingerbread men, candy canes and more look adorable smiling back at you from a zipper pull on a back pack. Find these keychains and more over on DIY Network in my post 10 Fabulously Fun Christmas Crafts for Kids.

I’ve used melty beads not once, but twice to make holiday coasters. They are perfect in a square shape like these Snowflake Perler Bead Coasters I made for HGTV. Pour yourself a cup of hot chocolate and rest assured that no rings of coco will be left behind.

A few years back I made these Ugly Christmas Sweater Melty Bead Coasters. They would be pretty awesome under a wine glass with an Ugly Christmas Sweater Charm on it. I’m just saying.

Remember, Perler beads may be marketed to kids but trust me I know from experience adults will love them too.
Looking for more ideas to keep the kids crafting this winter? Keep reading!

DIY Metled Crayon Lantern – Over on HGTV I have a post called 10 Fun Hanukkah and Winter Crafts for Kids where you can get all the details on this easy lantern and more.

Air Dry Clay Ice Cream Cone Ornaments – All you need is clay, a cookie cutter, paint and air to make these super simple ornaments.

Easy DIY Paper Straw Snowflakes – These cuties look great on a tree, atop a gift or hanging from the ceiling. Just add glue, straws and pompoms.
Who doesn’t love Perler beads? I’ve never seen them in ugly Christmas sweater coaster form, and I love them!