It looks like the shirt itself has grown a heartbeat, pulsing with fire-red beads. Each strand drips downward like flowing energy, spreading warmth beyond the heart’s edges.
When worn, the embroidery doesn’t just decorate, it speaks. It tells a story of passion stitched into fabric, of love that can’t be hidden but bursts outward in color and light.
Materials Needed
- Seed beads in red (10-15 grams)
- Round glass beads in mixed sizes (20-30 pieces)
- Teardrop beads for dripping accents (15-20 pieces)
- Beading needle and strong red thread
- White button-up shirt (cotton or blend)
- Embroidery hoop (optional)
- Scissors
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Outline a heart shape on the shirt with a fabric pen where you want the cut-out to be. Then carefully cut along the line, leaving a raw edge.
Step 2: Use small seed beads to stitch around the heart edge, covering the cut fabric and securing it neatly. This forms the border of your design.
Step 3: Begin adding strands of beads that radiate outward from the border. You can mix seed beads, round beads, and teardrops to give variety and flow.
Step 4: Stitch the strands in different lengths, letting some dangle lower to mimic dripping motion. Then keep filling until the heart feels surrounded with energy.
Step 5: Reinforce all threads on the inside of the shirt with double knots so the beadwork stays secure through wear.
Tips:
This design works best on structured shirts or jackets that can handle the bead weight.
If you want an even more dramatic look, use black thread underneath for contrast—it makes the red beads pop even brighter.