There's really no big secret to gluing on beads. I didn't do anything to the bird - just started gluing on beads. I started with small beads in all the indentations that seperate the feathers on the wings. Then I just filled the areas in and went from there. I didn't have a big over-all plan - I just went from section to section & saw where it took me & added what I thought looked nice. I'd draw in lines with a thin magic marker & follow them. I changed the lines alot - no one knows my mistakes ! I used Household Goop for glue - it grabs really fast and holds great .The beads were mostly 6mm & 8mm and seed beads.
Did I answer all your questions ? If not - let me know ! :)

PS - I'm starting my second one soon !