Bead-Embroidered Heritage Neckpiece

That's Clever! : Episode HCLVR-157 -- More Projects » (Continued from Page 1)
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Figure D
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Figure E
6. Pin in place and bead around the muslin cameo with #8 seed beads and glass pearls to cover the raw edges of the muslin (figure D). There is no need to turn under the edges as the polymer medium and paint will prevent the fabric from unraveling.

7. Stitch embellishments to the rest of the necklace; flowers, beads, charms, etc. Use tiny #11 cylindrical beads to create vines and stems (figure E).

8. Backstitch a line of #8 seed beads around the outline of the necklace.

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Figure G
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Figure H
9. Run a very thin bead of fabric glue or acrylic medium just outside of this line of beads. Let it dry and clip the fabric close to the outside of the glue line, without cutting into any of the stitching (figure F).

10. Determine the ribbon length and cut ribbon ends at an angle. Treat the ends with either a liquid seam sealant or fabric glue to prevent unraveling. Glue ribbons to the back of the tapestry (figure G).

11. Use fusible webbing to attach the necklace to a piece of faux leather backing fabric, sandwiching in the ribbon ties. Place the necklace face down on several layers of towels to prevent them from crushing the beading designs, and cover the faux leather with a thin towel to keep from flattening the pile.

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Figure I
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Figure J
12. Clip the backing even with the tapestry (figure H).

13. Stitch another line of beads to cover the raw edges. Pick up one bead at a time and bring the thread up through all layers of fabric, exiting behind the first line of beads. Then pass the thread down through the bead that was just added, pick up another bead and repeat the sequence the entire shape of the necklace (figure I). This technique leaves the edge completely finished.

Website: www.why-not-art.com

Also in this Episode
That's Clever! : Episode HCLVR-157
•Sculpted Figurine Picture Frame Holder
•Bead-Embroidered Heritage Neckpiece
•Handcarved Porcelain Bowl
•Optical Lens Pendant