Peyote stitch

Peyote stitch is probably the most used beading stitch in seed bead work. It can also be one of the most frustrating beading stitches to learn.Peyote stitch is a basic bead weaving technique used to create beaded pieces without a loom (off-loom bead weaving). The name peyote comes from early Native American rituals. An early form of the stitch was used to create beaded objects for use in religious ceremonies that included the used of the peyote cactus. Although modern peyote stitch is different from the techniques used by early Native Americans and African artists, the name has remained. The original peyote stitch used by Native Americans is what is now known as the gourd stitch.

This stitch allows the beader to create a beaded fabric without a loom or visible thread. By zigzagging the thread thru offset rows of beads, any size or shape can be created. The offset alignment achieved with peyote stitches give texture and interest to beaded jewelry and accessories. Learning the peyote stitch is usually easier than it looks. It