Ask the Experts Protecting Seed Beads Q&A
Q: I see that an artist's fixative is recommended for use on metallic seed beads. I assume this is for use on a finished piece--otherwise wouldn't the fixative plug the holes? Is it best to use a paintbrush to apply the fixative, to keep it from getting on other parts of the piece? And to apply it on one side, let it dry, and then apply on the other? Also, I once applied a fixative to larger beads, and found the next morning that it had become thick and dried on the bottom. What position do you recommend leaving them in for drying? Thanks.