Odd Count Peyote Stitch Bracelet Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 29/03/2025

Peyote stitch is a beloved technique for creating stunning beaded jewelry, offering a rich texture and versatility that allows for intricate designs. While even-count peyote is often the starting point for beginners, the slightly more challenging odd-count peyote stitch unlocks a whole new world of creative possibilities, leading to bracelets with a unique, slightly asymmetrical appeal. This technique is particularly rewarding for those looking to elevate their beadwork skills and craft truly bespoke pieces.

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making a beautiful odd-count peyote stitch bracelet, perfect for showcasing your favourite beads and adding a touch of handmade elegance to your style. Get ready to learn the simple yet effective steps involved, as we embark on this step-by-step journey towards crafting your own exquisite beaded masterpiece.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Size 11 Miyuki Delica beads
  • Size 12 beading needle
  • 6 lb FireLine thread
  • Thread guards
  • Jump rings
  • Lobster claw clasp
  • Scissors
  • Pliers
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors to cut your thread. Blunt scissors can cause fraying and weaken your bracelet.
  • Maintain consistent tension throughout the stitching process to ensure an even and well-formed bracelet. Too tight or too loose will distort the pattern.
  • Count your beads carefully in each row to avoid errors. An incorrect bead count can lead to pattern discrepancies and require unpicking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Thread

    • Cut approximately four feet of FireLine thread.
    Cut approximately four feet of FireLine thread.
    Prepare the Thread

  2. Start the First Row

    • Pick up nine beads for the first row (this creates the first two rows of Peyote Stitch). Leave a four-inch tail.
    Pick up nine beads for the first row (this creates the first two rows of Peyote Stitch). Leave a four-inch tail.
    Start the First Row

  3. Initial Peyote Stitch

    • Skip one bead, go through the next, creating a triangle. Repeat across the row.
    Begin Peyote stitch: Skip one bead, go through the next, creating a triangle. Repeat across the row.
    Initial Peyote Stitch

  4. First Row Turnaround

    • Pick up a bead, go through the last bead on the row, then back up and around to secure it. Weave back through the center bead and up beads to anchor the thread.
    End of the first row: Pick up a bead, go through the last bead on the row, then back up and around to secure it. Weave back through the center bead and up beads to anchor the thread.
    First Row Turnaround

  5. Continue Peyote Stitch

    • Continue Peyote stitch, adding a bead between each 'up' bead. The number of beads per row will vary (five, then four, etc.)
    Continue Peyote stitch, adding a bead between each 'up' bead. The number of beads per row will vary (five, then four, etc.)
    Continue Peyote Stitch

  6. Odd Count Turnaround

    • At the end of each row, pick up a bead, go *underneath* the thread bridge on the outside edge, then back up through the same bead. This creates an 'up' bead on the edge.
    Odd count Peyote stitch turnaround: At the end of each row, pick up a bead, go *underneath* the thread bridge on the outside edge, then back up through the same bead. This creates an 'up' bead on the edge.
    Odd Count Turnaround

  7. Create Bracelet Length

    • Continue adding rows until the desired length is reached.

  8. Secure the Thread

    • Weave the needle down into the beadwork several times around neighboring beads to secure the thread before adding a new thread.

  9. End the Bracelet

    • Go down one bead, up through two beads, down one bead, up through two beads, and so on, until you have only two ‘up’ beads left.

  10. Add Wire Guards

    • Weave the needle through the wire guard, securing it to the end beads. Wrap the thread around the wire guard multiple times for added security.

  11. Attach Clasp

    • Open jump rings, attach to wire guards, add desired length of jump rings for adjustability, then attach lobster claw clasp. Close jump rings with pliers.

Read more: DIY Crystal Bracelet: Easy Square Knot Tutorial

Tips

  • If you encounter difficulty passing through a bead multiple times, try a different direction to prevent breakage.
  • For bracelets, secure threads well, as they experience more wear and tear than earrings.
  • Use chain extenders for adjustable bracelets instead of open jump rings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Uneven tension while stitching leads to a lumpy or warped bracelet.
Solution: Maintain consistent pressure on your thread throughout the stitching process.

2. Incorrect Bead Placement

Reason: Skipping beads or placing them in the wrong order results in a flawed pattern or gaps in the design.
Solution: Carefully follow your pattern and double-check bead placement before adding the next bead.

FAQs

What's the difference between even and odd count peyote stitch?
Even count peyote uses an even number of beads in each row, creating a symmetrical pattern. Odd count uses an odd number, resulting in a slightly asymmetrical, often more textured look.
What type of beads are best for odd count peyote?
Seed beads, specifically size 11/0 or 8/0, are ideal for odd count peyote due to their uniform size and ease of handling. However, other small, uniformly sized beads can work as well.
How do I finish the ends of my odd count peyote bracelet?
Several methods exist, including using a ladder finish, creating a simple knot, or adding clasps. The best method depends on your bracelet design and personal preference. Many tutorials are available online demonstrating different finishing techniques.