Using Beads & Other Embellishments
 

I'd like to add some glass beading to a pillow top that I'm quilting. I've never added anything like that to a quilt. Has anyone else? Tips please...thanks.

I have not added any embellishments to any of my work but will anxiously be waiting to see the comments. Are you hand quilting this pillow top? If so, then you can quilt around your glass beading.

I often use beads, but only on art quilts. If your pillow top is one that is going to be leaned on or sat against, would they be an irritant? If not, I use Silamide, a waxed bead thread and I double it because of sharp edges a bead may have that could rub against the thread and wear through it. I use a size 10 John James appliqué needle -- thin and medium length. Usually I go through a bead twice with it, making sure the holes in the beads aren't pointing upward and don't show. It's lots of fun and the hardest part for me is knowing when to stop so I don't over-do. There are probably videos on YouTube that would be helpful.

I used to put beads on wearable art and loved the process. It leads to a good bead collection and more fun.

Is this to look at or "use" ?

I would avoid adding beads if it's to be used.

If it's to "look at only" - go for it!

Haven't added beads to a quilt, but years ago did use beadwork on other items--you will need a waxed thread that is thick enough to hold up--and a very small needle if doing seed beads.

I did add some bling to a quilt last year with a heat gun tool specifically for that and the pre-adhesive crystals--it worked fine but the crystals are little pricey.

I add beads frequently to quilts. Usually crazy quilts or art quilts. I took a FMQ class from Cindy Needham. She adds beads to her exquisite work. I use So Fine 50 thread to sew beads and buttons down. Sew through the holes three times. Has worked so far

Thanks for the tips everyone. I'm thinking of using glass, seed beads on some pillow covers. I hadn't thought of using waxed thread, so I appreciate that suggestion.