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Beading Instructions

Seed Bead Needleweaving

Basic needleweaving may remind you of crocheting.  The first row is worked, then subsequent rows are looped into the previous row.  Vertical rows are worked from left to right (right-handed person).  Use this stitch with loom patterns.

• Loom Pattern
• Seed beads - size 10/0 or 11/0
• Ordinary mercerized cotton sewing thread; choose neutral color similar to pattern
• #9 embroidery needle
• Thread conditioner or beeswax
• Scissors

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Begin by threading a #9 embroidery needle with 1 yard of prepared thread, so that a 5" tail remains.
• String one bead of any color, and position it 3" from the long end of the thread.  Loop the thread back through the bead and pull it tightly.  This is your "stopper" bead.  It will be removed later. You may wish to secure the stopper bead to a flat surface to stabilize the thread.
• Thread the beads from Row 1 from top to bottom (vertical rows are worked from left to right).  Skip the last bead threaded, inserting the needle back through all the beads on the thread.  The needle should emerge from the top bead of Row 1.
• Thread the beads of Row 2 from top to bottom.  Always recount the beads against the pattern to be sure they are in order.  Insert the needle into the loop exposed at the bottom of Row 1.  Pull the thread gently until Row 2 rests against Row 1 without puckering.
• Insert the needle through the last bead of Row 2 and bring the thread out until it is taut.  Loop the thread around Row 1 so that it nestles in the space between the last two beads of Row 1.  Moving from bottom to top of Row 2, insert the needle through the next 2 beads from Row 2, and loop the thread around Row 1 in the space directly to the left of your point of exit.
• Still moving from bottom to top of Row 2, insert the needle through the next 3 beads from Row 2, and loop the thread around Row 1 as done previously.  Repeat the looping/inserting process until the thread emerges from the top of Row 2.
• All subsequent rows will be worked the same, except that the first loop (nestled between the last two beads of Row 1, will not be made.  It is added to the first row to stabilize your work. 
• The pattern of loops may be worked in any way.  A 3-bead repeat is the most effective for needleweaving.  If you wish to make a loop between every bead, the woven piece will be stiffer.
• Upon completion of all the rows in your pattern, remove the stopper bead, and weave any loose ends back into the finished piece.
• Attach backing if desired.

TIPS:

Introduce new thread when 3" of thread remains on the needle.  Remove the needle from the old thread.  Cut a new 1 yard length.  Tie a square knot 1" from where the old thread emerges from the beadwork.  Place a tiny dot of glue on the knot, wiping off any excess.  You don't need to wait for the glue to dry before proceeding.  Continue beading as if you were using one continuous thread.  Let the thread ends protrude from the work until the new thread is well established within the weave.  Pull gently on the ends and clip them close so that they disappear into the weave.  You may find it necessary to use a smaller needle until you have passed the area of the knot.