Adding Bugle Beads

Bugle beads are long, slender, tubular beads. The ends of bugle beads are sharp and can cut your thread, so it is always a good idea to add a seed bead onto either side of the bugle bead. Here is how they look on a quilt.

Bring your needle up where you want the seed-bugle-seed bead combination to begin. Add a seed bead, then a bugle bead, and then another seed bead to your needle. Go back down into fabric at the end of the line of beads keeping your needle vertical to the fabric. Leave only enough room for the beads; you want enough tension on the thread for the beads to lay flat.

It is a good idea to take some securing stitches every few beads (if you are working on a top and batting) or to knot your thread every few beads and bury the knot in the batting of the quilt (if you are working on a completed quilt).

Now, go and give this a try on your practice piece or on your quilt. I'll show you how I add sequins to my quilts tomorrow. Now on to information about the first giveaway...

The first giveaway is from Betsy of Red Panda Beads.

If you remember my post on January 1, you will recall that I mentioned Red Panda Beads as a source for the FireLine beading thread that I like to use. Red Panda Beads also has a GREAT selection of beads, and I have found the customer service to be exemplary.  

I'd like to share a bit about Red Panda Beads with you--Betsy says, "I started this website in November 2009. Two years ago I gave up my day job to do this full time. My philosophy is simple, treat others as you would like to be treated. When I order online, I like for items to be shipped quickly, so my policy is to ship all packages as quickly as possible. Usually all orders are processed and on their way to their new homes within 24 hours. I also know that I have a valuable resource that most beaders do not. I can see, touch and compare beads side by side before choosing beads for any project. So if you need any assistance or color recommendations, please do not hesitate to ask! That's what I'm here for. You may chat live with me, phone me or email me. I only sell items that I consider quality and would be proud to own myself. And lastly, my return policy is one that I am most proud of. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your Red Panda Beads purchase, you may return any items for a full refund. Red Panda Beads will also pay any postage expenses you may incur while sending back any returns. You have 14 days from the day you receive your package to contact us to arrange a merchandise return."

Betsy has kindly agreed to give a $25 Shopping Spree to one of our blog readers. She has asked that these two requirements be kept in mind--the prize is only valid on the Red Panda Beads website, and the winner must register on the Red Panda Beads website to collect their prize. Once the winner registers, she will apply the credit to their account. All US orders over $25 qualify for FREE USPS First Class shipping.

To win Betsy's prize you will need to leave a comment on this post. I'd also LOVE for you to become a "Follower" of this site. (To become a member/follower of this site, all you need to do is click on "Join this site" under "Followers" on the right-hand side of this page.) I'll be choosing a winner on January 21. Good luck, and be sure to check back to find out when the next giveaway will be.