How to Make a Guru Bead

A guru bead is a large bead that holds together a Buddhist Mala, a traditional string of prayer beads. The guru bead is different from the other beads because it is significantly larger. It also has three holes, two located across from each other and a larger hole at the bottom. The ends of the Mala string go through the small holes and exit the large hole together. A tassel attaches underneath the guru bead to hold it all together. Guru beads are often made from sandalwood. The can be made at home in just a few minutes.

Instructions

1

Draw a circle around the diameter of a 1-inch sandalwood bead with a pencil. Make the mark light enough that it is easily erasable but still dark enough to see clearly.

2

Place two dots directly across from each other on the line.

3

Place a larger dot on the line directly in between the two dots.

4

Drape a small rag over the walls of a small vise. Place the bead in the vise with one of the small dots pointed upwards. Close the vise until the bead is held firmly, but do not tighten it enough to crush the bead.

5

Drill a hole all the way through the bead with a 1/16-inch drill bit. Drill straight through the bead at the small dot. It should exit at the other small dot, but if it is relatively close then it will work.

6

Loosen the vise. Rotate the bead until the large dot is pointed upwards.

7

Drill a hole halfway through the bead with a 1/8-inch drill bit.

8

Blow into each of the small holes forcefully while holding the opposite small hole closed with one finger. This removes any sawdust. The holes are not drilled straight if the air doesn't exit the large hole.