I've been working on TW's Celestial Dragon, and I'm not too far from the beading stage. I've never worked with beads, so I'm looking for input.

1. I assume it's best to do these last. Correct?

2. Should I wash and press the piece before beading? I can't imagine pressing after adding beads.

3. What do I need to prepare for as far as doing the actual work? I'm accustomed to holding the piece in my hand (I use Q-Snaps) for stitching. I'll need to work at a table for the beads, won't I? Can this be done with the fabric loose (no hoop or frame)?

4. What gauge needle do you recommend?

5. What am I forgetting to ask about? :-)

(I remember the olden days of the Usenet-based RCTN when a message like this would release a torrent of responses and maybe even set off a mini-flame war or something.)

--Danny