Beading Q And A: Seed Bead Stitching (5/2/2011)

BeadGal answers:

You need to add an extra bead at the start of each row.  Pick up 2 beads then go through the thread in the first gap.

You’ll see the edges of your work will not be a straight line, but will go half a bead in, then half a bead out for the second line.

To make the triangle shape, you would pick up 2 beads, then go through the second gap. Or another method to make the triangle is to pick up only one bead.

BeadGal answers:

This means to bead in a circle using the square stitch which is the same as a off loom stitch. Then you need to do 9 rows. You will end up with 18 rows if you do it right because 1 row (round) is two beads high.

Here is a link to a tutorial.
Http://www.beadwrangler.com/samplers/squarestitch1/making_squarestitch_samples.htm This link has excellent photos of step by step. Make sure you scroll down, the beginning is Square stitch basic, then the variations come as you go down . Circular is there. Good luck, don’t give up.

BeadGal answers:

I purchase from Brightlings Beads all the time. I’ve never purchased seed beads, but I am super pleased with their service and quality for other beads and findings. Plus I get weekly coupons in my email, so that really helps keep the cost down:  http://www.brightlingsbeads.com/seed-beads.html

Also try:
Fusion Beads and Artbeads – again, great quality, super service and free shipping
http://www.fusionbeads.com/shop/category/64/Japanese_Seed_Beads/
http://www.artbeads.com/delicas-seed-beads.html

BeadGal answers:

It is according to what size seed beads you are using, but a#10 or #12 needle should work for most seed beads. A #12 is thinner and more flexible. I usually bead stitch with Fireline, using 6# or 8#, again which is fine for most seed beads. 6# is thinner.

Here’s a good guide to selecting your needle and thread according to what size seed beads you have:

http://beadwork.about.com/od/howtos/tp/How_to_match_beads_to_needles_and_thread.htm