Peyote stitch is one of the most popular beading stitches and it’s the first type of beadwork that many people learn. Once you know the basics, it's easy to get started. There are many different forms, but most beaders start with flat peyote or tubular peyote.

Most peyote patterns call for Nymo thread (http://www.beadalon.com/nymoThread.asp) and a hard beading needle (http://www.beadalon.com/HardBeadingNeedlesRigid.asp) . Nymo comes in a variety of colors that coordinate with beads. Size D Nymo is very common for peyote stitch and it works well with size 12 needles. You can also use thin diameters of Dandyline  (http://www.beadalon.com/dandyLine.asp) beading thread. If you’re making a pattern from scratch, choose the Nymo or Dandyline size based on the holes in your beads. Keep in mind that you may have to pass through some beads more than once.

Flat “one-drop” peyote stitch is worked one bead at a time. Begin by attaching a stopper bead or a piece of tape to one end of the thread. Some people also find it helpful to secure the beads to a work surface. Next, string an even number of beads that will become your first two rows. To begin the third row, add a bead and pass the needle through the second bead. Continue to add a bead and skip a bead until you reach the end of the row. To start another row, add a bead and pass through the last bead added on the previous row.

“Two-drop” peyote stitch is worked in the same manner but you use two beads at a time to create each stitch. Begin by stringing an even number of beads that are divisible by four. Create the next row by stringing two beads and passing through the second set of two beads. Continue adding two beads and skipping two beads to complete the row. To start the next row, pass through the first pair of beads on the previous row.

Tubular peyote is worked in the round, row by row. To begin, pass the needle through a row of beads and tie the thread in a knot so the beads form a circle. Some people find it easier to work around a surface like a needle tube or wooden dowel. Add a bead and pass through the second bead on the circle. Continue to add a bead and skip a bead until you reach the end of the circle, and then start another row.

If you need to add additional thread, work it into the beadwork several stitches ahead of the current stitch. The stitches should be tight enough to hold the thread in place but you can knot it or add a drop of jeweler’s cement for additional security. Weave the end of the first thread into the beadwork.

For more ideas and inspiration visit: www.katiehacker.com