Even count peyote is so named because you will need to start with an even number of beads. Use this stitch for flat projects like straps, bracelets, even amulet bags. It's a simple stitch, one of the first that a beader learns to do.For this tutorial, you will need beading thread, a needle, and beads. For practice, you may want to start with bigger seed beads, like size 8 or 6. Make sure you choose beads with holes that are big enough for thread to pass through about 3 or more times. I have spaces between the beads in the diagram to make it easy to understand the process but there should be no spaces between your beads as you work. However, don't pull the thread too tight or your work will bunch up.
1. Cut a comfortable length of thread and pass through the needle eye. You will be working with a single thread so make one tail of the thread, your working tail, longer than the other.
2. String one bead on, about 6 inches away from the end of the thread, and either tie it or pass the thread through it a couple of times to secure it. This bead will act as a stopper to prevent your beads from sliding off the thread as you work.
3. String 5 more beads onto your thread.
4. String one more bead and, skipping the sixth bead, pass the needle through the fifth bead. Pull the thread so that the sixth and seventh beads are snug.
5. String another bead and, skipping the fourth bead, pass the needle through the third bead.6. String one more bead and, skipping the second bead, pass the needle through the first bead.
7. String one more bead. At this point, you are going to start another row, the third row. Pass the needle through the next protruding bead, bead 1 in the diagram.
8. Continue in this fashion, stringing on one bead and passing the needle through the next protruding bead. After a few rows, your work should begin to look like the diagram below. Of course, this is a rough representation, there should be no space between the beads.
Now, if this is process is a bit confusing for you, you might enjoy the animated tutorial at Michael's or you can watch this video:
