Gail Nettles

Here's a peyote bracelet tutorial for your viewing pleasure, to explain how to do peyote stitch beading.  I was about ready to put together a written tutorial, when Jennie reminded me that I didn't have to reinvent the wheel.  Thanks you, Jennie, because I discovered some great peyote tutorials in video form!  (And another thanks to Jennie for finding me a couple to start with.)  Since my Mermaid's Garden bracelet was based on the peyote stitch, it's only fair that I give you instructions on how to do basic peyote.  (Now my Mermaid's Garden is a freeform version, but before you do freeform, you need to know how to do regular peyote stitch beading.)

I watched a multitude of videos, and I've selected what I think is the best of the best.  The video I have below is in two parts.  Today is the first part, where it describes the supplies needed and how to do an odd-count peyote stitch.

Now I'm partial to an even-count peyote stitch myself, because you don't need that funky turn, the way you do in odd-count.  Still, there are lots of patterns that call for an odd-count peyote stitch, so it's good to know how to do it.

Peyote Bracelet Tutorial

So, without (much) further ado, here's how you accomplish the odd-count peyote stitch.  In this tutorial, Karla, the instructor, advises using size 6 or 8 seed beads to start.  A very wise move, if you're just starting out in either beading or need a little help learning a new stitch (like me).

Here you go!  I hope you enjoy watching as much as I did -- I think you'll agree that Karla does a super job.  And not to worry, I have part 2 of this peyote bracelet tutorial video so you can learn how to finish your bracelet, once you've watched part 1.