If you've seen someone wearing a beaded garment, then you may have been inspired to make one for yourself. Done correctly, it's a wonderful way to liven up your wardrobe and have a collection of clothing that is unique and individual. But there are a few basics that you need to keep in mind when you're getting ready to bead a garment.

Fabrics
Most fabrics can be beaded if you're careful, but stay away from extremely sheer fabrics, or fabrics that are easily crushed, as it's hard to press the beadwork. For beginners, it's probably best to start with a knit fabric, such as rugby, double knit or fleece. These materials are easy to handle and more tolerant of error. If you choose a fine fabric, you may need to back the material with an iron on backing, preferable some type of woven interfacing. This will help to support the beading when completed.

If you're knit material, or anything that might shrink, it's best to pre-wash the garment. It can also be a good idea to test your beads for colorfastness prior to using them on a garment. To do this, place a few beads onto a piece of thread and place them in a cup of warm water containing some mild washing liquid. Leave them for a few minutes, and then dip a white tissue into the water. If you see traces of color, you will need to use different beads. If there are no traces of color, the beads should be fine.

Threads
Use thread you're familiar with, preferably one that doesn't twist. If you have problems with twisting, run the thread over a beeswax block once, and wipe the excess onto a spare piece of fabric. Choose thread that matches the color of the fabric. The only exception would be if the beads are a strongly contrasting color - for example, black beads on white fabric might be better with black thread. Test first and decide which looks best. If you're using sequins, then the thread should always match the sequins, not the fabric.

Needles
Use a good quality beading needle, usually size 10-13. A smaller needle is better if you can manage it, but you might need to make use of a needle threader. Check the size of the eye on your needle - you might prefer to use a needle of the same size with a smaller eye so that you make less of a mark if you're using delicate fabric.

Caring For Your Garment
Once you've finished beading your garment, it's important to care for it properly. Hand wash gently using a mild washing powder or liquid. Rinse the garment well and wrap it in a towel. Squeeze out the excess water gently. Dry it flat in the shade, and NEVER tumble dry. If you need to press your garment, make sure you never press sequins. For beads, lay the work right side facing down, with a towel underneath it, and gently press with the wool setting on your press. If you dry your garment carefully, most of the time it shouldn't need pressing.

Now all you need to do is find a garment, design a pattern with beads, and get started!

About the Author:
If you want to read more about beading garments, click over to Felicity's site at http://www.beading-is-fun.info To read Felicity's Ultimate Bead Lover's Guide, go to http://www.ultimatebeadloversguide.com