Because of their small size and simple shape, seed beads lend themselves to a variety of techniques. Learning the basic bead designs will allow you to make any number of beautiful projects.
Peyote Stitch
The Peyote stitch is a popular technique for seed beading, since it is versatile and easy for beginners. Once you learn this stitch, you'll be able to try variations to create unique designs. You can also make attractive patterns with the beads by using multiple colors.
Things You'll Need
- Seed beads in chosen color
- Needle and fine beading thread
- Scissors
- Plate or large shallow dish
What to Do
- Work over a shallow dish or plate to keep the seed beads from rolling off your work surface. If you'll be using multiple bead colors, use small dishes for each one.
- Thread the needle, and slide one bead onto the thread. Tie the thread around this bead to secure it.
- Slide several additional beads onto the thread. The number of beads you use will determine the width of your project. For a simple friendship bracelet, start with five beads.
- Add another bead, but don't slide it all the way down the string. Instead, leave the bead loose, and bring the needle back through the second to the last bead on your string. Pull the thread tight. Repeat this step, skipping every other bead, until you finish the row.
- Go on to the next row, adding beads until your project reaches the desired length. Tie off the final bead.
Videos and Projects Using the Peyote Stitch
The following sites offer video tutorials and projects that will help you learn this beading technique:
- Peyote stitch bracelet from Beading Times
- Peyote Stitch for Beginners Tutorial Video
- Beading Basics Peyote Stitch Video
- Chevron Peyote stitch tutorial
Ladder Stitch
Many beading projects require you to understand the ladder stitch. Fortunately, this stitch is very simple. With practice, you'll master it in no time.
Things You'll Need
- Bugle beads
- Beading thread and needle
- Scissors
- Shallow dish
What to Do
- Work in the shallow dish to keep the beads from rolling away. Thread your needle, and slide two bugle beads onto the string. Tie the string around the first bead.
- Slide the needle through the second bugle bead in the opposite direction, allowing the thread to wrap around the bead. Gently pull the thread to secure the two beads side by side.
- Slide another bugle bead onto the string, and then bring the needle back through the last bead. You'll now have three beads in a row. Continue this process until your ladder-stitched piece is the desired width.
Videos and Projects Using the Ladder Stitch
This stitch is quite simple, but it can be helpful to see videos and tutorials of the technique. The following sites offer ladder stitch projects to help you learn:
- Video tutorial for a ladder-stitched ring from Jewelry Supply
- Tutorial video for making a herringbone pattern with a ladder stitch
- Ladder stitch instructions from Fire Mountain Gems
- Ladder stitch bracelet from Beading Daily
Right Angle Weaving
Many projects use right angle bead weaving as part of the design. This easy stitch will allow you to create a variety of beautiful jewelry pieces and accessories.
Things You'll Need
- Seed beads
- Beading thread and needle
- Scissors
- Shallow dish
What to Do
- Tie the first bead on your string, and then add three more beads. Adjust the beads to form a loop, and bring the thread up through the first three beads. Pull the thread tight.
- Add another three beads, and adjust them to form a second loop.
- Bring the thread through the closest bead in your first loop, and then continue around the circle. When you're done, you'll have a figure-8-style shape.
- Continue adding three beads at a time and making more loops until your piece is the desired length.
Videos and Projects Using Right Angle Weaving
Although right angle weaving is easy, it may help to view videos of the process and try simple projects to perfect your skills. The following sites have resources that will help.
- Right Angle Weave Beaded Ring Video
- Right angle weave bracelet from BeadsBaublesandJewels
- Right Angle Weave Tennis Bracelet Video
- Right angle weave ring from Cut Out and Keep
Affordable and Versatile
Seed beading is an affordable and versatile hobby. Once you learn these basic techniques, you'll be ready to create gorgeous beaded jewelry and other fun items.
