Beading Artistry for Quilts

August 6, 2012
For Atkins, sewing beads onto quilts “is a great deal more than just embellishment.” A former sculptor, Atkins paints with beads, using the fabric as his canvas; he balances bead with fabric by giving each “a voice in the design.” Atkins adds texture and dimensions when he superimposes beads on batik and paisley after he’s quilted them. He also produces complete works of art with beads as but one of the media in his original designs. In one stunning example, “The Man in the Window,” he employs beads to mimic rain outside the frame of the portrait he quilted. While photographs of Atkins’s exquisite designs tantalize, the book is more than eye candy, for Atkins wields words where pictures can’t explain. He teaches novice beaders about supplies. He covers basics—beads and stitches (single, back, couching and lazy)—and explains which work best where. He offers tips on everything from knotting thread to crushing beads. His delight in beading shines forth in his style, which is simple yet caring.