Favorite Techniques: Peyote Stitch

It’s one of the first bead weaving techniques that beginners want to master, one of the most commonly used stitches in beadwork, and a friend to seed beads of all shapes and sizes. Today our guest, Krafty Max, talks about the wonders of peyote stitch.

Inspirational Beading: What is your all time favorite beading technique?

Krafty Max: For me it is a really hard choice between herringbone and peyote, but I think I will have to say Peyote.

Inspirational Beading: How do you first learn to use peyote stitch?

Krafty Max: I am not really sure, I started stranding when I was between 4-5 years old, but I have creations that were done with the peyote stitch as far back as around 7, so somewhere in that time. If I really want to feel old I'll tell you that 'around' 7 was over 35 years ago!

Inspirational Beading: Of all the creations you’ve made with this technique, which one is your favorite?

Krafty Max: One of my most recent creations is definitely my favorite. This creation is a piece of artwork and with over 40,000 beads and 120+ hours it is also my largest. It was designed and created for several beading contests (still to be announced if I was a winner). The story and photos are here : Reaching Tranquility Miniature Dressing Screen.

Inspirational Beading: Can you share any tips for getting started with peyote stitch?

Krafty Max: When I first started teaching peyote stitch to people it was very hard to explain, but then one of those amazing things happened and the tip just came to me! I always tell people to look at peyote stitch like it is a zipper. The teeth fit into each other - one up and one down - until the next row that is - one down and one up. It is the most amazing feeling to watch students faces as they are stitching to have that 'aw ha' moment when it all fits (pun intended) together!

Inspirational Beading: Do you have a favorite material or color to use it with?

Krafty Max: For me there is just no substitution to Delica Seed beads. I have tried other brands and types, but the quality just isn't the same! I always explain to students that seeds beads come in two types: basic seed beads that are shaped like doughnuts, and then there are Delica seed beads that are shaped like cut straws.

Inspirational Beading: If someone had to choose to learn only one technique, would you recommend this one?

Krafty Max: Yes and no. Yes, it is a great stitch, but if someone were only learning one stitch I would recommend RAW (Right Angle Weave). It is much more versatile and can be used with just about any bead type or size. It also is very easy to learn to increase and decrease with RAW.

Inspirational Beading: What is your least favorite thing about this peyote stitch?

Krafty Max: The least favorite thing about Peyote Stitch is that it is only flexible in one direction. It is very flexible in one direction, but the other way is very stiff.

Inspirational Beading: Do you use any variations? Which one is your favorite?

Krafty Max: Yes, I do single, double, triple and even quad-drop peyote. I personally like single and double about the same. The only big factor to which one I will use is the designing of the patterns I am going to use (I design all my own patterns, as well).

You can see more peyote stitch creations and beadwork jewelry at the Krafty Max Originals blog, and on ArtFire

Check out Inspirational Beading featured on Krafty Max Manic Monday

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