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Bead embroidery

· 1 min read · Techniques

Illustration: Bead embroidery

In bead embroidery, beads are sewn onto a base of fabric, felt or leather, filling in a design. With cabochons and stones, pendants and brooches are made.

Steps of the technique: Draw, Fix the cabochon, Embroider the first row, Fill, Cut, Back
Summary of the steps

How it is done #

  1. The design is drawn on a stiff base.
  2. The center cabochon is fixed with glue or a small stitch.
  3. Beads are embroidered around it, in rows.
  4. A backing (leather or ultrasuede) is sewn on and trimmed.

Materials #

Seed beads, faceted beads and cabochons; waxed thread; fine needle; felt or stiff stabilizer.

Styles #

From simple rows to designs with volume, in brooches and bib necklaces.

Tradition #

A classic technique of the peoples of the American plains and of haute couture.

Step by step #

  1. Draw. Trace the design on the stiff base.
  2. Fix the cabochon. With glue or stitches.
  3. Embroider the first row. Around the cabochon.
  4. Fill. Row by row outward.
  5. Cut. Trim the base.
  6. Back. Sew on a leather backing.

Tools and materials #

  • Beads and cabochons
  • Waxed thread and fine needle
  • Felt or stiff stabilizer
  • Ultrasuede or leather

Common mistakes #

  • Loose thread: the row sags.
  • Trimming too close to the stitching.
  • Cabochon badly fixed.
  • Beads of different sizes.

See also #

This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.