One of the first things you learn about sequins is that there is a right-side and a wrong-side. Before threading them onto the bobbin thread you must find out which is which and there are a few tricks for this such as finding the minuscule lip on the wrong side that is created when the sequins are stamped out of sheets of plastic or metal, or feeling for a smooth and rough surface when the beads are stacked vertically or observing if they rest in a slanting slope or bumpy hill on your finger. I had to ask the teacher each time and then made sure to remember the trick for tying the loop in the string of sequins and then passing the bobbin thread through.
Applying sequins in a river
Gather some sequins from the bobbin and wrap the thread around the fingers on your left hand as for knitting. Separate and feed the sequins using your thumb and index finger.
Place the sequin behind the hook and then loop the thread around with your finger. The hook remains vertical and static, it is the left hand that moves. Once the thread is attached, rotate the hook and then pull to the surface. Remember to keep the tension by holding the bobbin thread vertical.
It is very important with sequins that you respect the direction of the design which is usually marked with a little arrow. The direction that you apply the beads will determine how they overlap so it is worth remembering!
Graduated sequins
Apply sequins in a river and at the end of the row or column do a small stitch to hold the tension. Then do a diagonal stitch back towards the beginning of the next row and continue straight to the top. Change direction and apply the sequins in a river again until the design for the first colour is completed. Change the sequins on the bobbin thread or change the bobbin thread.
Bring the hook through the last chain stitch of the last sequin and continue applying the sequins in a row in the new colour. When the row is complete do a diagonal stitch back towards the next row and continue until the last sequin of the first colour.
Textile Tours of Paris
Join Rebecca on a tour of Paris’ charming haberdasheries nestled deep in the winding streets of Le Sentier, the city’s historic textile and fashion district. Enjoy a Sunday morning with Rebecca on a Flea Market Tour as she guides you through the labyrinth alleys of Paris’ oldest marché-aux-puces to uncover hidden treasure troves filled with vintage lace, linen, passementerie, golden threads and gossamer lingerie. To find out more visit Textile Tours of Paris.