Flat even-count petote is usually the very first stitch that a beader learns. With this variation, you are working with an even number of beads.
You’ll want to use a stop bead to get started – choose a bead that looks different to the beads you’ll be working with so it’s obvious.
Start by picking up an even number of beads e.g. 8 beads. Hold some tension on these beads. Now pick up 1 more bead and skip the last (8th) bead and pass into the next bead – working back towards the stop bead. You’ll see that these beads now sit next to each other. Now pick up one more bead, skip the next bead and pass into the one after. Repeat this along, until you reach the beginning.
This first row is always the hardest. If you get to the end and find you have an extra bead at the end, then double check that you definitely picked up an even number at the start, and check you haven’t skipped more than one bead in your row.
By adding this row, we have now effectively created rows 1-3.
To continue, you’ll pick up a new bead, and pass through the next sticky-outy bead. Repeat along to the end and then flip the work and continue working these peyote rows. Flat even count peyote is that simple!
Tips for even count peyote stitch
- Cylinder beads such as Delicas work well with peyote stitch (great choice for learners!)
- Always use a stop bead
- Remember you’ll be adding the beads for rows 1 and 2 in one go
- You can work patterns with peyote stitch
- Triangle beads and cubes work well with peyote
