Two ways, both up to you. Full cross in color of bead or fabric. One strand only. Makes 'em stand straight up. Half cross; one strand; same color rules. They slant, so do them all the same direction.

Floss color depends on center hole. Clear beads need matching floss. Silver centers work nicely with fabric color, because the thread isn't noticeable.

Reread question. Need to clarify one thing. Beads go in their own spaces, or between X Stitches. Don't need a XStitch underneath.

I agree with jhewes. I use cross stitch (full cross) to add my beads.

Thanks jlhewes and all...that was my question...so as I do is what I will continue to do...not a cross stitch under a bead, but through the bead with one strand. I needed the reassurance because this is a very special project for my first great-grandchild!

Does this mean that the beads go on during the stitching or afterward? I always do them afterwards so I won't break or loosen them.

Maybe we should Skype and then we could have lessons, ask questions, watch demonstrations, etc.

Usually after stitching. I get bored, stitch them on & pad with paper towel or quilt batting. Can't iron piece in that case, but I have a gridded & padded quilters' board, so I stretch & pin instead. Can't bead ahead with hoops. Attach them after, freehand.

Avoiding Skype too!

I have a padded and gridded iron board cover that is just great. I wonder what our forefathers would think about beading our cross stitch...LOL!

I started doing beaded cross stitch about a year ago and fell in love with it! My first was a kit from Mill Hill and I learned a lot from their directions that came with the kit. I want to try designing my own but not sure I'm ready yet. All the advice I just read here is great. I use a "sticky" bead mat when I'm doing the beads and it works great for picking up tiny beads and working with them. Don't know what I'd do without it.

Beckysue what a great idea. Where do you get a sticky mat? It's those things that make life so much simpler and our chit chat so enjoyable. I drop a ton of them and my granddaughter picks them up. When she was younger, around three, I would hear her mumble to herself "where is this stuff coming from". It was funny and cute. I also drop my orts on the floor next to my chair and clean up every few days. I know, I know, I should place my trash can there. Well she would mumble "what is this stuff"? She is four now and knows.

I've seen them as accessories. Usually flat, with a lid to keep them clean in your sewing box. 'Course you eventually have to load them back into their little MH containers.

Love the granddaughter story. Kids say "the darnedest things," as Linkletter said.