[Adishakti]

I buy molded cups, then cut off the ribcage and shoulder straps. I make new ribcage straps out of denim and the shoulder straps out of grossgrain ribbon. Cover, decorate, then line and they turn out nice and sturdy.

If you want to heavily bead it, then you may want to stiffen the bra after beading - you can buy fabric stiffener at Walmart. I usually give the cups two light layers, and the ribcage strap one layer.

Have fun!