The local hardware store should be able to cut these for you if you don’t have a saw.
Instead of brass tubes, you can also use wooden barbecue skewers.
Painting beads while they’re on a string or skewer makes it easier to coat the entire bead. They’ll also dry more evenly and not smear. [4] X Research source For an ombre look, choose 10 different shades of one color that will go from darkest to lightest as you move down the abacus. [5] X Research source
Skip the drilling by securing the pieces of wood in place with wood glue instead.
For a colorful abacus, paint the popsicle sticks with acrylic paint before assembling.
This is a great step for kids to help with to practice their motor skills. If you don’t have pipe cleaners, you can use pieces of string or wire.
