Bring on the Beads for Bead Embroidery

Last installment we learned a bit about preparation of fabrics for bead embroidery. In this article, we'll talk about beads!

Just about any and all beads can be used in bead embroidery. The most commonly used beads in detial bead embroidery are basic Japanese or Czech 11/0 seed beads, with size 13/0 charlottes and tiny 15/0's used. Larger beads with surface patterns and textures, such as Czech pressed glass leaf beads, swirl beads and other flat beads care used as secondary design elements. Some designs are created around a large central bead or cabochon. Cabochons are usually glued to a backing or substrate fabric such as Lacy's Stiff Stuff or the new Bead Backing from Sova Enterprises, the people who bring us Bead-Patterns.com.

The stitches used make a difference, too. When applying beads to a fabric piece, try to think of the beads as the paint and the stitches as the brush strokes. Position the beads in such a manner that they follow the natural line of the object you are beading. You'll be amazed at how beautiful your pieces will look. When beading with backstitch, don't be tempted to go more than 3 beads at a time. Your work will look much neater and will hold up better if you do not lay on too many beads per stitch. Same with Lane Stitch or Satin Stitch. No more than four or five beds should be in each set.

Also, keep shading in mind. Gradual and subtle shading in a bead embroidered piece can make all the difference. If you are using a picture for a model, pay close attention to this detail. Spend time choosing your beads. See the highlights and shading in a face - Chris Manes does and excellent job with this - see her beaded amulet bag CleopatraColor and finish are important factors in choosing beads for your embroidery. Check beads before you use them by laying them next to each other to see how they "read" on the backing fabric and beside one another.

Color theory is a college course in itself, but just emembering that mattes will recede next to a shiny finish, as will transparent over opaque will help you in your bead embroidery . Margie Deebs has written a book on color theory called The Beaders Guide to Color. Pick up a copy of this as it is the best color reference work for beaders. Learning to use color and shading along with textural changes in your bead embroidery will bring otherwise flat, lifeless images to life.