I need your advice quilting experts. I am working on an art quilt and I have finished the piecing and applique. At this point I have embellished them with embroidery floss and beads and then hand quilted them. But this piece is my first on the machine and I was wondering if the machine quilting would ruin the embroidery if I go over it or if I should just try to quilt around it.
Also, DH says I should put the beads on last but then I can't bury the back (supporting interfacing) between the layers so I don't want to do that. That part is up for debate since, as an art piece the back should always be against the wall but I have a high standard for craftsmanship and I don't like the idea of my work showing on the back.
Please help me decide my next course of action. Thanks!