Beadpoint

Beadpoint is essentially needlepoint worked backwards.  In both, the stitch/bead slants from left at bottom to right at top. Two of needlepoint's standard stitches, continental and half-cross, are used in beadpoint.  In needlepoint, the thread itself comprises the stitch, while
in beadpoint the thread serves only to anchor the bead to the canvas.

MATERIALS NEEDED:

• Loom Pattern
• Seed beads (refer to canvas sizes below)
• Thread - ordinary sewing thread or lightweight Nymo
• #14 white needlepoint canvas for use with 11/0 seed beads, both Czech & Japanese; OR
• #16 white needlepoint canvas for use with Delica beads; OR
• #18 white needlepoint canvas for use with 15/0 Japanese seed beads
• Needle - #10 or #11 between, or #12 beading tapestry point needle (for use on all sizes of canvas and with all sizes of seed beads)
• Felt for lining

Combination Method - Work the pattern in alternating rows of long (continental) and short (half-cross) backstitch. This combination method results in a beaded piece with good weight but very little canvas distortion.  If half-cross is used alone, the threading on the back of the canvas is very minimal and it is difficult to anchor new threads and tie off finished ones.  If only continental is used, the back of the canvas becomes heavily padded with thread, and there can be significant distortion of the finished piece.  Using a combination of the two gives good backing and minimal distortion.

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Before you begin stitching, tape the canvas with masking tape to keep the thread from catching in the edges.  Trim the corners in a round shape so the thread will not get stuck on the corner.  Replace tape as needed.  Your starting point should allow an unstitched canvas margin of about 1 inch.
• Designs are worked from loom patterns.  When counting a design, it's a good idea to mark off each row as you complete it, to help keep your place.
• Use a doubled thread knotted at one end.  Secure the thread to the canvas by holding it on the back and covering it with the thread from the first few stitches.
• Work your pattern in horizontal rows, alternating between long and short backstitches to anchor your beads to the canvas.
• When it is time to end a thread, run it under a few stitches on the back of the canvas one or more times until the thread is secure.  Clip the excess thread, but not too close, or you may cut into your work threads.
• Straighten the canvas if stitching has produced distortion.
• Finish by trimming excess canvas.  Leave 5-6 rows of canvas all around.  Notch corners into a v-shape.  Press notched edges toward the back, and secure them with slip-stitches.
• Sew or glue lining to the beaded piece, if desired, so that very little of the canvas shows on the back and edges.