Thinking About Starting Bead Embroidery? A Simple Guide to Easy Techniques!

A. Glass Beads

A must-have for bead embroidery. Small round beads or extra-small beads are most commonly used.

B. Sequins

Sew them on for extra sparkle ☆ They add a nice contrast to beads and look adorable.

C. Bugle Beads

Tube-shaped beads that make great accents in your design♪

D. Pearls

Perfect for the centers of floral motifs or for outlining your designs.

Recommended Items: Tools (Part 1)

E. Embroidery Hoop

This tool holds your fabric tightly in place. Keeping the fabric stretched prevents shifting and wrinkles, helping you create neat, even stitches. It’s especially essential for beginners.

F. Felt

Soft felt is recommended. It’s thick and stable enough that you can stitch beads directly onto it without using a hoop.

G. Embroidery Fabric

For beginners, a slightly thin cotton or linen with a tight weave works well. Choose a fabric that won’t snag your beads and is easy to stitch through.

H. Organza Fabric for Bead Embroidery

A light, sheer material. Since it’s transparent, you can easily see where your needle is going, making it easier to place your stitches. Its softness makes it great for delicate designs.

I. Beading Thread

Thread designed to pair well with beads. It has a nylon coating that keeps it from fraying or fuzzing. It also has a slight sheen that gives your work a more polished look.

J. Beading Needle

A needle made specifically for bead embroidery and beadwork. It’s thinner than regular needles, allowing beads to slide through easily. An essential tool for bead embroidery.

Recommended Items: Tools (Part 2)

K. Fabric Marker (Chalk Pen)

L. Craft Glue

M. Scissors

N. Bead Tray

O. Transfer Paper for Embroidery Patterns

P. Bead Mat

Basic Beading Stitches

Even if it’s your first time trying bead embroidery, learning just a few simple techniques will allow you to create beautiful patterns with ease.
Here are the basic stitches used in bead embroidery.
Each one is beginner-friendly and easy to incorporate into your projects. Give them a try and enjoy creating your own original designs!

Single-Bead Stitch

The single-bead stitch is the most basic technique, where you sew beads onto the fabric one at a time.
By placing beads evenly along the fabric, you can create fine dots and clean lines. This method works well for everything from simple patterns to more intricate designs.

Continuous Bead Stitch

The continuous bead stitch is a method where beads are sewn in a connected line.
Instead of attaching them one by one, you stitch them consecutively to create smooth lines and band-like patterns. It’s perfect for borders and linear designs.

Single-Side Sequin Stitch

The single-side sequin stitch is a method where the sequin is attached only on one side.
By anchoring just one edge, the sequin moves lightly and creates a fluttery, delicate look. This technique is often used as a decorative accent.

Sequin with Bead Anchor

The sequin-with-bead anchor stitch is a technique where a sequin and a bead are sewn on together.
Using a bead keeps the sequin firmly in place while adding extra decorative detail. It’s perfect for areas where you want the design to stand out.

Overlapped Sequin Stitch

The overlapped sequin stitch is a technique where multiple sequins are layered and sewn on top of one another.
By overlapping them, you can create a dimensional, luxurious texture with beautiful shine and depth.

Triangle Stitch Fill

The triangle stitch fill is a technique used to densely pack beads so that no gaps remain.
By carefully filling the fabric with beads, you can create rich, detailed, and high-density designs—perfect for intricate patterns or fine decorative areas.

Brick Stitch

The brick stitch is a technique used to edge your work with beads or pearls.
Rather than stitching on the fabric surface, this method is used to create a decorative border.
It forms clean, elegant lines and enhances the overall outline of your design—perfect for projects that need a refined, delicate finish.