Listed here are some data about beads as supplied by Gay Bowles Sales. This information is approximate, and not guaranteed. It is to be used as a guide only. Please note that metallic beads are not suitable for jewelry. Starting Cross Stitch Beading Vol.
Beads normally occupy one design space instead of a cross stitch.
Most people sew the beads after their surrounding cross stitching is complete because they need to be well secured . The hole in most beads is too small to be used with a tapestry needle. A half cross stitch is normally used, in the same direction as the lower half of the cross stitch. Since all your cross stitch projects should normally have all their cross stitches lying in the same direction, this will make this stitch on top lie in the opposite direction, but the bead will lie in the same direction as the other top stitches. Some designs suggest that a full cross stitch is used, but the beads are only attached by the upper cross of each stitch.