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Using Beads in Cross Stitch
Many people like to add embellishments to their cross stitch,
and a great way to do this is with beads. In many situations,
its also another way to avoid doing the dreaded French knot!
Beads usually cover one space instead of a cross stitch. I would
suggest sewing the beads after their surrounding cross stitching
is complete because they need to be well secured, and lie on top
of the cross stitches. For regular and small size beads, use one
strand of floss or for heavier beads you can use two strands.
There is also black or white "Nymo" beading thread, and there is
"invisible" YLI thread which can be used for beading. If you
cant find these, use a color of thread that is either close to
the color of the bead, or similar to the background, so that the
thread doesnt detract from the bead.
The size of the needle usually depends on the size of the bead.
With seed beads use a fine pointed needle such as a quilting
needle, appliqu needle or beading needle. The hole in most
beads is too small to be used with a regular cross stitch
needle. Beading needles are long and flexible with very narrow
eyes. You can also use a regular hand sewing needle in a pinch,
because theyre the only ones thin enough for the beads to fit
over. All of these needles are more difficult to thread though,
you will probably need a needle threader.
A half cross stitch is normally used to attach them, and you
should stitch in the same direction as the lower half of the
cross stitch. Some designs suggest that a full cross stitch is
used. The difference is the way that the beads will lay. With a
half stitch the bead will sit on a slant, while with a full
cross stitch the hole through the bead will lie up and down or
sideways depending on which way you place it. Whichever you
choose though, make sure you sew them all the same way. Many
times the instructions will tell you the best way to do it for
your pattern. Either way, the bead should be on its side though,
not lay flat.
The packets that beads come in are small and do not close
easily, so in order to make sure you dont lose any, find a
suitable household container, with a lid, into which you can
easily dip your needle and pick up a bead. Children and animals
are a great danger to the safety of your beads, and the beads
can be a danger to them, so keep them far away from each other.
A final word of caution, NEVER iron beadwork. The beads will
probably break, or could melt and ruin all your hard work.
About the author:
Katrina Renouf is the founder and owner of the cross stitch
website www.matkailuxstitch.com
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