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Tips to Embellish Quilts with Beads
by Maybelle Maddison

Description: Tips to consider before you add beads to your current quilting project.

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If you are interested in tips to embellish quilts with beads, you have come to the right place. Quilts have moved beyond simple coverings to works of art due partly to the addition of embellishments such as beads. This article will explore how you can ensure that your beaded quilt vision comes to life by asking yourself four simple questions.

Is this a good project to embellish?

What kind of quilt are you making? If this is going to be a well-loved and well-washed quilt, I would not suggest embellishing. It will require too much care. Wall-hangings or mini quilts, however, are perfect projects for beading.

How can I improve this quilt?

There is no point in adding beads to the quilt if they will only be a distraction. Everything you do should be to make the quilt more beautiful. Although I love gaudy baubles, this is one time where too much is not a good thing.

The first step to embellishing quilts with beads is to take a good look at your quilt pattern. What can be enhanced about the pattern or the fabric that you are using? Do you want the outline of a star to stand out? Do you want to bead the center of an appliquéd flower? Take a washable making pencil (please be sure to test to make sure that the marks will come out upon washing) and outline where you think beads would look the best. Turn it over in your mind. Get down your beading vision of this quilt.

Are my embellishments in the center of the quilt?

You need to establish what Joan Hawley of Lazy Girl Designs calls an "Embellishment Zone." You do not want your embellishments getting lost in the edges of your quilt or in the seam allowance. Keep them in the center of each block and at least two inches from the perimeter of your quilt.

Do I have the tools to stitch these beads on the quilt?

Just say "no" to glue. I know it is easy. It is also messy and your beads could easily detach. Do it right the first time and stitch the beads to your quilt. This quilt will last a long time. You will feel comfortable knowing that you did your best.

So, are you ready to embellish your quilts with beads? Once you have the right project, the right game plan, place the beads in the right places and in the right way, it is sure to be a winner.

Visit How to Quilt Review for reviews of beginning quilting books, tools and resources to get you started and to keep you quilting!

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