This pattern uses three sizes of beads and is easy to stitch because it requires no increases, decreases, or twists. You can use it to make a necklace, bracelet, or even an anklet. Here are the beads and supplies I used to make the example necklace shown above, not including the peyote stitch clasp.
Beads
You'll need the following beads to make one beaded rope that is about 17 inches long. If you add the toggle clasp, you'll need some additional beads and thread. The clasp will add about 1.25 inches to the total length of your design.
- ~4 grams of size 11/0 Delicas in sparkling beige lined chartreuse; I.D. #DB0908 (A)
- ~6 grams of round size 11/0 Miyuki seed beads in opaque turquoise green; #11-412 (B)
- ~13 grams of round size 8/0 Miyuki seed beads in opaque turquoise green; #8-412 (C)
- ~3.5 grams of size 11/0 Delicas in metallic dark bronze; #DB0022 (D)
- ~3 grams of round size 11/0 Delicas in sparkling salmon lined topaz; #DB0913 (E)
- ~2 grams of size 11/0 round Miyuki seed beads in butter cream ceylon; #11-527 (F)
These colors are usually stocked by Caravan Beads. If you have trouble finding them, it may be because the manufacturer has stopped producing certain colors. In that case, feel free to swap colors with similar ones.
The capital letters in parentheses above are the bead key. Learn more about these and other terms and annotations used in beading patterns.
Beading Supplies
- 1/4-inch silk cording in a length that is at least a few inches longer than the desired length of your beaded rope.*
- Size D nylon beading thread. I used Nymo in golden yellow. With herringbone stitch, a small amount of thread typically shows between the beads, and so it's a good idea to use a coordinating or neutral thread color.
- Thread conditioner (such as Thread Heaven)
- Beading scissors
- Sharp household scissors
- Size 12 beading needle
- Optional but recommended: A beading awl to make it easier to pull out stitches if you make a mistake and a tabletop or jeweler's magnifier to make it easier to see the beads
- Other basic items in your kit of essential beadweaving supplies
*I purchase my silk cording online at BelloModo. Because the cording will show through the beadwork just a little, it's a good idea to select a color that will not be distracting. Alternatively, you can use any lightweight 1/4-inch piping cord; just be aware that the color of cord (such as white or tan) may be noticeable inside of your beaded rope.