How to Add Beads to Jeans

Buttons are often used as an alternative to beads on jeans.

Adding beading to jeans creates a personalized look that only you will have. You can add as much or as little beading to the jeans to make a loud or subtle statement. You are limited by your own imagination to come up with designs for these jeans. Make use of various bead shapes, colors and design styles. Beaded jeans make great gifts to friends and family members.

Things You'll Need

• Tracing paper
• Pins
• Sewing needle
• Blue sewing thread

Instructions

1. Draw dots on the tracing paper to create an outline of your design. Consider that your design will not be flat but will contour with your body on your jeans.

2. Pin the tracing paper to where you wish your beading to be. This provides a reference for you so you know exactly where you are placing the beads. Make sure the tracing paper is securely pinned. Use three or four pins at a minimum.

3. Thread the needle with blue thread. The thread should be 1 foot in length at a minimum to allow for slack.

4. Start at one corner of the tracing paper. Place the first bead at the desired spot, lining it up on the tracing paper. Hold the bead in place with one hand. With your second hand, find the underside of the area where you want to sew the bead. Poke the needle through the desired area and feed the thread through the hole of the bead. Poke a second hole about 1 to 2 centimeters from the first hole and feed the thread to the bottom to hold the bead securely.

5. Sew the remainder of the beads on by repeating step 4. When you are finished sewing the beads, make sure the needle and thread are on the underside of the pants. Tie a double knot to secure all of the threads and beads.

6. Carefully tear the tracing paper away after all beads are secure. Rip small sections at a time so you don't loosen any of the beads.

Tips & Warnings

• If a bead feels loose after sewing one loop, double or triple the loop around the bead to secure it tightly.

• Hand wash jeans after the beads are sewn on. It is likely that the beads will be agitated in the washing machine and may fall off.

• If a bead does fall off, it can be easily replaced without the need of the tracing paper.

References

• Beaded Clothes Blog: Add Beads to Recycled Clothing