SKILL LEVEL

While beginners are welcome, some experience of embroidery will enable you to expand your skillset and create more complex or detailed pieces.

SKILLS YOU’LL LEARN

•    Design inspiration and ideas.

• Drawing and transferring a design onto fabric.

• Types of beads and sequins and where to purchase them.

• Knowledge of the variety of needles, stitching techniques and threads used in beads and sequins embroidery techniques.

• Exploring line, shape and texture with beads and sequins techniques.

• Completion of beads & sequins embroidery samples.

Tools & Tips for Beading & Sequins

Beads and sequins definitely add a touch of glamour to garments, accessories or even home furnishings. Whether you sew for yourself or you’re an aspiring fashion designer, these techniques will open up a world of creative possibilities.

1.     Choosing the right needles: Choose beading needles or sharps with small eyes, as they easily pass through the tiny holes in beads and sequins. Beading needles are longer and thinner, allowing you to navigate intricate details effortlessly. We’ll point you in the right direction (sorry, couldn’t resist that one : )

2.     Thread selection: Opt for a strong and fine thread that matches the colour of your beads or sequins. The thread should be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the beads and sequins, ensuring durability in your finished piece.

3.     Prepping the beads and sequins: Before sewing, sort and organise your beads and sequins based on size, shape, and colour. This preparation saves time during the sewing process and allows you to plan your design more effectively. Use a bead tray or small containers to keep your materials organised and easily accessible.

4.     Securing beads with backstitch: This is a common technique to attach beads securely. We’ll show you how to insert the needle from the wrong side of the fabric, bringing it up at the desired bead placement. You will then slide the bead onto the needle, then pass the needle back through the fabric, creating a small stitch.

5.     Attaching sequins with a running stitch: For attaching sequins, a running stitch is commonly used. Insert the needle from the wrong side of the fabric and bring it up through a sequin hole. Slide the sequin onto the needle and let it rest against the fabric. Pass the needle back down through the next sequin hole, securing the sequin in place.

6.     Embellishing with bead embroidery: You can create intricate designs using a combination of beads and embroidery stitches. Begin by sketching your design on the fabric, then secure your first bead by sewing it through the fabric. Use a mix of bead sizes and colours to add dimension and visual interest.

7.     Adding dimension with French Knots: French knots are a versatile technique that can enhance your beading and sequin work. They create small, raised knots on the fabric's surface. To create a French knot, bring the needle up through the fabric at the desired location. Wrap the thread around the needle two or three times, close to the fabric. Insert the needle back into the fabric near the starting point, holding the wraps in place. Gently pull the thread to tighten the knot.

8.     Finishing techniques: To ensure a neat and professional finish, secure your thread at the end of your work. Weave the needle through nearby stitches on the wrong side of the fabric to secure the thread, then trim any excess.