>Cut it Out

>

Semi-beaded M1 Abrams main battle tank. Bead embroidery on f elt.

17" wide x 5.5" tall (40 x 13cm)

The other day, I got an email from a new reader who noticed that I cut out my felt shapes before I bead them. She asked " Wouldn't it be easier to work if you beaded the shape first on a larger piece of felt, THEN carefully cut it out? You'd be able to hold on to it more easily, and it would be lots easier to bead the edges. "

I know that plenty of beaders work this way, and I have tried that before, but I have found it is easier for me to work in the opposite manner. Since my pieces are so larger, it is much easier for me to work if there is no excess material, and it is actually easier for me to bead the edges of the felt if it is already cut out. Also, I would be afraid to try to cut out an odd shape such as a beaded military tank after it is beaded. What if I accidentally cut a thread that I can't see?? Then, all of my work would fall apart! So, I guess there is a method to my madness, afterall. Which method would you prefer?