Learn how to stitch a colorful stack of fish in this fun bead embroidery tutorial. We’ll guide you step-by-step through layering fabric, stitching playful fish shapes, and adding eye-catching bead details to bring each one to life. This project is perfect for hoop art, embellishing bags, or adding a splash of personality to any textile piece.

No two fish will be the same—and that’s the point!

What you'll explore:

• Simple fish shapes with big personality
• Bead embellishments for scales and sparkle
• Mixing textures with thread, fabric paint, and stitches

Perfect for hoops, patches, or framed art. Cast your needle and let’s stitch a school!

Pattern PDF can be found here.

Shopping List is here.

Your Instructor

Nichole creates video content and classes for John Bead and produces tutorials on her own YouTube channel, sharing her expertise with a wider community. She regularly teaches embroidery workshops across the U.S. and is the author of three books: Boho Embroidery: Modern Projects from Traditional Stitches, Boho Embroidery: The Pattern Collection, and her latest release, Needles Out! (2024). For more information, visit her at www.wildboho.com.

Here is a link to many of her other free tutorials for John Bead.