when to attach beads

[DrWHO]

hi,
i took everyones advice and i have nearly completed my first cross stitch. however it will have beads on it and i am unsure do you attach the beads before washing or after in case they come off or incase it prevents the completed piece being ironed properly? not sure what to do.

[Serinde]

Depends on how you are planning to wash the piece. If by hand, the beads should stay put. (Especially if you are able to attach them with one stitch through the bead and the second arm of the cross stitch floss falling on either side of the bead -- secures it better.) Like this.

Using a thick towel and ironing on the back of the design should be fine for the beads. Just be gentle.

[coffee_freak]

i attach beads securely and then when i wash..if you are gentle during hand washing should be fine..also when you dry..lay flat,stitched side down, onto a towel..and roll.
push down onto the rolled towl..never twist.
when you iron..iron from the back with a towel between the iron and the stitched piece...my beads always stay put doing it this way

[DrWHO]

thanks for the advice when completed i will try and get stephen to help me post a picture as my computer skills are very poor

[lacemaker2004]

I know this is a late response but I always wash first and then attach the beads. I've always been concerned with water being retained in the beads and leaking out afterwards or any dampness creating mold after framing.