Lesson 1Understanding thread types and breaking strength: silk, polyester, nylon/monofilament — when to use which for durability and invisibilityCompare silk, polyester, cotton, and nylon threads for bead and sequin work. Learn how twist, thickness, and finish impact strength, visibility, and wear resistance, and select threads for hand or machine sewing.
Silk thread for fine couture embellishmentPolyester thread for everyday durabilityNylon and monofilament: pros and consTesting breaking strength and abrasionColor matching and intentional contrastLesson 2Safety, care, and conservation basics: avoiding corrosion, rust-proof beads, colorfastness testing, and storage best practicesLearn to protect beads, sequins, and fabrics from damage over time. We discuss corrosion risks, rust-proof and colour-fast materials, humidity control, and safe storage to keep shine, shape, and thread strength intact.
Identifying corrosion‑prone metals and coatingsRust‑proof and tarnish‑resistant bead optionsSimple colorfastness and crocking testsHumidity, light, and pest control in storageArchival boxes, bags, and labeling methodsLesson 3Selecting lining and interfacings to control weight and comfort: lightweight linings, cotton batiste, power mesh, and sew-in vs. fusible optionsUnderstand how linings and interfacings hold up heavy embellishments while keeping clothes comfy. Compare cotton batiste, power mesh, and others, plus when to pick sew-in or iron-on for stability and flow.
Matching lining weight to bead loadCotton batiste as a breathable support layerPower mesh for stretch and distributed weightSew‑in versus fusible interfacing choicesPlacing support only where needed on garmentsLesson 4Hand tools and work setup: frames/hoops, thimbles, bead mats, magnification, lighting, and ergonomic considerations to reduce fatigueSet up a comfy, efficient beading station. Learn to choose frames, hoops, thimbles, bead mats, lights, and magnifiers, and arrange your seat and tools to cut down strain, tiredness, and repeat injuries.
Selecting frames, hoops, and stretcher barsThimbles, finger cots, and grip aidsBead trays, mats, and spill‑proof containersTask lighting color temperature and anglePosture, breaks, and hand‑stretch routinesLesson 5Common sequin types: flat sequins, cup/concave sequins, paillette/large sequins — sizes, hole types, reflective qualitiesExplore main sequin types like flat, cup, and large paillettes. Learn how size, thickness, hole position, and surface affect sparkle, movement, and fit for high-end, costume, or daily wear.
Flat sequins: structure, sizes, and coverageCup and concave sequins: depth and sparklePaillettes and large sequins: impact and swingHole positions, threading paths, and stabilityMatte, metallic, and holographic surface finishesLesson 6Accessory materials: embroidery threads, beading needles, stabilizers, appliqué nets, and adhesivesDiscover helpful materials that simplify embellishment. We cover embroidery threads, beading needles, stabilisers, appliqué nets, and glues, with tips on when each boosts accuracy and control.
Choosing beading and embroidery needle sizesTemporary and wash‑away stabilizer optionsAppliqué nets and tulle as transfer basesAdhesives for positioning, not long‑term holdOrganizing small tools for quick accessLesson 7Choosing fabrics for embellished eveningwear: silk charmeuse, crepe, chiffon, tulle, organza, brocade — drape, strength, needle/skein compatibility, and behaviour under weightSee how evening fabrics handle dense beading and sequins. Check drape, strength in silk, chiffon, tulle, organza, brocade, plus needle and thread picks to avoid snags and tears.
Silk charmeuse: fluid drape and snag risksCrepe and satin: balanced weight and coverageChiffon and georgette: handling sheer groundsTulle and net: grid alignment for motifsOrganza and brocade for structured designsLesson 8Common bead types: glass seed beads, Czech beads, bugle beads — characteristics, weight, finish, and best usesCheck key bead types used with sequins like seed, Czech, and bugle. Learn how size, wall thickness, finish, and weight shape texture, drape, and demands on fabric and thread.
Seed bead sizing systems and shapesCzech pressed and fire‑polished beadsBugle beads: lengths, edges, and breakageOpaque, transparent, and AB finishesBalancing bead weight with fabric strength
