In my limited experience with beads I have always done them as I went along. Washed after project was completely finished.

In my limited experience with beads I have always done them as I went along. Washed after project was completely finished.

I bead when I'm done and then wash. Press embroidery side down on a terry towel (preferably white so colours don't bleed). I use a tea towel that is mostly beige to put between the iron and my project.

Sometimes I attach the beads afterwards but mostly as I go along. It all depends on the project. Since you will be beading afterwards you could wash beforehand and then go over it with the iron again when you are finished - of course in the way that judy recommended. I use a thick bath towel and place a white handkerchief over the project. Do not wring the fabric, those creases are most difficult to get out. I roll mine in a towel and by the next day, while still damp, I press.
I have a mermaid pattern but haven't had time to go through my stash and match up the fabric, floss and embellishments. I usually place everything in a freezer bag when it arrives but sometimes things fall through the cracks.
Post a photo of yours, I'd love to see it.

Thank you for your responses! I finally started beading my project and am looking forward to washing and framing. I will post a picture as soon as I can.

WIP