When to wash a project

[coolpenguin]

Hi. As the topic title says, when should I wash my project? I wanted to keep the grid lines (made with washable marker) to help with back stitching , then wash it and then do the beading. Is this correct?

Thanks!

[Allyn]

It could be right. I do everything, including the beading, before I wash mine. I want to wash mine after everything is finished and I'm not going to handle it anymore, but I can be quite anal about conservation routines. Why do you want to wash it before you bead?

[coolpenguin]

Worried about the beads coming off when washing. Might have to be a bit rigorous because I started this is April and I still have a ways to go.

[Allyn]

Worried about the beads coming off when washing. Might have to be a bit rigorous because I started this is April and I still have a ways to go.

I know it can be scary the first time, but I think you'll be fine. I have never had a bead come off. I do a thread-under anchor with the extra security loop to start and end my bead thread (http://www.scarletquince.com/end_anchor.php" target="_blank) and I hand wash -- which is mostly soaking with some gentle squeezing action. If you feel like you need a more vigorous wash, put the finished project in a pillow case, tie off the end of the case and toss it in the washing machine on gentle cycle.