A TECHNIQUE DRIVEN Blog dedicated to mastery of surface design techniques. First we dye, overdye, paint, stitch, resist, tie, fold, silk screen, stamp, thermofax, batik, bejewel, stretch, shrink, sprinkle, Smooch, fuse, slice, dice, AND then we set it on fire using a variety of heat tools.

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

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.

25 comments:

  1. I love how you've shown off these beads in a project. I've never used beads before in my quilting, but I think I want to give it a try.
    rsgrandinetti@yahoo(DOT)com

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  2. Great posts on beading. Never realised that adding seed beads to bugle beads would make such a difference.

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  3. This is great information--especially helpful to learn what tools you use! Thank you!! --reg82

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  4. I haven't done any beading but I'd like to try some! Thanks for the tip about adding seed beads to either end of bugle beads!

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  5. Love that you are making the beading info available to everyone! I'm already addicted, so a giveaway for a bead store...that's like a shot at heaven! Thanks.

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  6. Thanks Beth for basics, pictures and resources. Adding beads will be on my 2013 agenda
    Ann

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  7. Beads are surely addictive! Thanks for the lessons and the give away!

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  8. Looks like it is time for me to organize my bead stash. Sounds like a good plan for this month!

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  9. I love beading! Thanks for the great visuals on sewing beads to quilts.

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  10. I have used beads on many quilts but found your information to be very helpful and the fireline beading thread would be a useful addition to my work. Thanks for the opportunity to win the $25 gift certificate.

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  11. I'm a follower already...and as ridiculous as it is, would LOVE to add to my beads.

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  12. went to redpanda last night and placed an order!

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  13. One can never have enough beads can one? I am a follower already and love using beads on my things.

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  14. Beads, lots of beads...so many things can be done with beads to add to a piece of fiber work, or just create something with beads. Thanks for the link to the Red Panda site...some great beads there. I am a follower of your blog already...love the illustrated beading instructions you have been posting. Clear and very good for showing my granddaughter how to use beads.

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  15. Awesome instructions!! I'm a new beader and love your site.

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  16. Love beads...can never have too many

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  17. I'd love a chance to add to my beads. I really enjoy reading the blog. I just joined as a follower.

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  18. Thank for the information on beading. I always just fumble along so some clear instructions are very welcome! O, and I'm already a follower of the site.

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  19. I didn't know about adding beads to the ends of the buggle beads, its a good tip! Thank you!! Enjoy reading your blog!
    Nancy B.

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  20. Love your work! Your use of beads on the quilt is beautiful. Thanks!
    Terry

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  21. Been following for a while now, love your blog! I'm skipping around reading these beading posts, such great info and the diagrams help so much, thank you! I *knew* I shouldn't have clicked on the Red Panda website link, saw the sale, had to buy! And yes, I AM addicted to beads! =0)

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  22. Great tutorials and giveaways!
    indyqltr@hotmail.com

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  23. Never knew how to treat buggle beads, now I do, thank you! Love them in a quilt!

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  24. Really nice info on stitches and use of beads! Thanks Beth!

    Sandy

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  25. I really like that you share the tools you use, and have some inspiring examples.

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