Hi Beaders!
I am finally getting a chance to sit down and write. I know you guys must be wondering what has been happening with this blog. Well, I have a two-year-old grandson, who is spending 3 to 4 days a week at Mimi’s house. So, sitting at the laptop to write has become an increasing difficulty. LOL
But I wouldn’t trade this time for anything. He will only be little for a while, and I enjoy watching him learn to talk and so much more.
I have concluded that I will be able to get more done, if I switch format, from written to video for the foreseeable future.
Having said that, however, I will still try to do as many written tutorials along the way as I can. And that includes the first few posts of this new project.
Beginner Bead Embroidery
The Autumn’s Flame project gave me the opportunity to tackle a topic that I have wanted to do for quite a while on the blog. It also gave me a chance to use the gorgeous crystal fancy stones I received from Potomac Beads in a sample.
Recently, I wrote up a Review of the spectacular sample, check it out if you haven’t already done so. But let’s go ahead and get straight to the materials and tools you will need for this project.
Materials and Tools
Bead embroidery is used to affix beads, stones, and crystals to a background in any number of patterns and schemes. Most of the time, this done by stitching the beads to an interfacing or backing that can support the weight of the beads.
A few good options for the interfacing are Lacy’s Stiff Stuff and the Beadsmith Beading Foundation.
A strong glue or epoxy is used to secure stones, crystals or other objects to the interfacing and allowed to completely dry before the bead stitching can begin.
Two of the most popular choices for this are E6000 or G-S Hypo Cement.
Make sure to check the drying or curing time of the adhesive you choose before you begin to stitch, so your focal piece stays in place.
Next, you will need beading thread and needles that are strong enough to hold the weight of your beads.
If you plan to use crystals beads, you might prefer to use a heavier weight thread that will resist fraying and cutting. Using a nylon thread in colors that match your project’s scheme, especially for the edge beads.
Fireline or other braided thread works very well to secure beads to the beading foundation. Nymo threads and thread conditioners also work very well if you are careful not to snap your thread.
For beginners, I suggest using the strongest threads, until you get the hang of beading through layers of fabrics.
Size 11/0 Delica or other cylinder beads, work beautifully for stitching beaded bezels, for crystals, gemstones, glass or other focal points. As to the beads used in this project, see the list below.
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In the next post of the Autumn’s Flame project, I will show you how to prepare the fancy crystal stones for a bead embroidery project, so stay tuned to The Alluring Bead Boutique.
