There are advantages to either way. I used to bead last, because I thought it would be hard to switch needles and bead after finishing a section of a design. And I didn't know how to handle the design with the beads in my qsnaps.

I recently got a tip to help me bead as I go, and keep the project in my qsaps. I usually stitch from the top down, rather than starting in the middle. And I use extenders to make sure the width of the design is in the qsnap frame. As I move the fabric in the qsnap frame up, the top clamp is left off. The tension is still good with the other three clamps on.

Now I bead as I go and I really like it. It seems to take a little longer finishing a section (because I usually only stitched it and moved on). But it is really nice seeing the design totally complete as I go. And I don't have to feel intimidated by all the beads left to do after stitching a huge project like LOTF. Once I'm finished.. I'm really finished.
Wendy

Current Rotation: Mirabilia: Angel Proclamation, Royal Holiday, Cinderella; Lavender & Lace: Celtic Spring, Angel of Dreams; Other: Night Train II, The Price of Freedom, Wonderful Winter

2005 Completions: