1. Most bead embroidery directions are correct, despite how widely they may vary. Stitching with beads is not complex; differences in directions can usually be attributed to variables in fabric, fibers and intended use and not every technique requires the same structure. There are a delightful variety of clever methods; we'll share some of ours and reference others'. Where there is powerful art, strong opinions abound!

e.g. Do YOU Knot Bead Embroidery?

2. You may yearn to have three hands, and wouldn’t that make an interesting world! The sensation of entering any new media is both exciting and unsettling. Read (any set of) bead embroidery directions with an eye seeking the tricks used to achieve that third hand, mount or hold the work, or so organize actions or materials that a sense of control results.

3. The Art is in the Work, that is, bead craft (and a great many other skills) are mastered in the doing. Fanciful, elegant or erudite beading is not sprung from the surf as dear Venus on the half shell. You will learn so much through the very action of your stitch that you may be surprised how quickly you are cheering on others wanting to try their hand!

4. Learning is advanced by Sharing! If you want to learn, participate; if you already know, encourage others. An online or onsite community is a fine environment for learning and sharing. Understanding embroidery directions or other bead stitch techniques can be greatly advanced by attending a Guild, a web forum or an art community. When embarking on an adventure, there is nothing quite as invigorating as having others believe in you!

5. Try more than one set of bead embroidery directions (enjoy our pages and scroll down for additional resources); read more than one beading book. Remember, in addition to embroidery and other needlework, any bead stitch worked in hand
(on or off loom) can also be attached to fabric for wearable art, beaded dolls, beaded quilts or other display; try a variety of techniques & enjoy mixing medias!

6. All Tools are Fair Game
It is just our Fussy Opinion, but we vote for using The Tools! A good light and excellent magnification are important even for those well-sighted. If fingers feel too big to get into tight spaces, learn about hemostats, needlenose pliers and other assists! Ignore hubris: use what works and follow Art Safety for this craft and any other.

7. Yes, you can create with Beads!
Whether you embellish ready-to-wear, created beaded accessories, or design fully beaded Wearable Art, Bead-media believes you can achieve your artisic goals.

BEAD-MEDIA RESOURCES

Bead Embroidery Stitches
Beading Stitches, Beads and Floss, Choosing Needles, Solid Bead Embroidery, Silk Ribbon and Beads, Stitching Beads and Sequins, Shisha Work, Couching Cabochons, Lane Stitching; Bead-like stitches, Raised Beadwork and fabric geometry.

Knot Bead Embroidery!
To knot or not? How to start your bead embroidery with a knot, How to start without a knot. Where to learn more about tying both practical & decorative knots and why.

How to use a Bead Spinner
It is well worth the (short) learning curve to have those beads fly on the line! Learn to use a bead spinner to string beads, Where to find them, How to make your own.

How to Quilt a Brick
How to cover a brick or block with a padded cover and other Third Hand assistance.

Working In Hand
Establishing a taut ground without a hoop or frame, Review of Backing Materials, Bead Embroidery on Felt, Velvet, Knits, Fleece, Leather & Suede, How to Bead a Sweater, Beading on Polartec; designs & Bead Patterns.

How to set up a Hoop or Frame
Prepare a hoop, Hooping multiple layers or odd sizes; Setting up a Japanese frame, Preparing a Scroll Frame; Make your own Slate Frame. Resources for hoops, frames and frame holders.

Stitching on Odd Sizes
How to hoop or frame odd sizes to be embroidered.

Choosing Fabrics
Fabrics for Bead Embroidery, Needlework fabrics, Silks and other Fashion Fabrics; linings, underlinings, and stabilizers. Interlining for warmth. Resources for discount fabrics.

Fabric Resources
Silk Fabrics, Fat Quarters, Remnants, & Scraps, Cotton Fabrics, Fashion Fabrics, Needlework Fabrics, Beaded Fabrics; resources for linings & underlinings; Fabric Search options.

Working on a Grid
Choosing Fabrics for grid work. Beading needlepoint canvas, counted stitch and waste canvas with beads. Beading from a chart. Charting your own beadwork design.

Tambour Beading with a Cornaly Hook

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Books about Bead Embroidery
as well as related stitchery, beadwork techniques and other wonderful media. These are our recommendations for the bead artist's library, and how to find more.

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