Small scrolls are made in Ethiopia, rolled into metal or leather cases, and worn around the neck or tied to a belt. They contain prayers, cures, or talismans to ward off evil.

These scrolls can be used for a wish scroll, containing personal, imaginary, or global wishes. To celebrate Martin Luther King Day, make one with a dream inside. For Earth Day, make a wish for the earth. In addition to the recycled film container, use saved thread, string, or ribbon, old beads or buttons, and make the scroll from a grocery bag or recycled paper.

You Need:
* 1 recycled film container or other plastic cylinder
* 1 piece of yarn or ribbon, 1 arm-length long
* 1 piece of paper slightly shorter than the container and long enough to wrap around it
* 1 strip of paper the height of the container and as long as you want for the scroll (I like to use a piece cut from a brown grocery bag)
* tape
* scissors

1. Place one end of yarn on each side of the container and tape the yarn to the container near the top.

2. Put a piece of tape all around the container for a stronger hold.

3. Cut a piece of paper that is slightly shorter than the height of the container and long enough to wrap around.

4. Glue the paper around the container:
Place the paper on a piece of scrap paper and cover the entire surface with glue. Place the paper with the glue side up. Set the container on the paper and carefully roll so that the paper sticks to the container. Press on the paper to help the glue stick.

5. Roll scroll strip and place in container.

6. Attach decorative ties (optional):
Wrap a hand-length of yarn or thick thread around the yarn on each side and tie a double knot. Add beads, buttons, and/or bread closures to the ends for decoration.

You are welcome to print and share this PDF.

Specific projects using the Wish Scroll are on Susan's Making Books with Children blog.

A more detailed explanation of the Wish Scroll with suggested readings, along with fifteen other books from around the world, is in Susan's forthcoming Handmade Books for A Healthy Planet.