How to Count Rows in Square Stitch

Square stitch looks very similar to beaded loom work, but is performed using only a needle and thread and does not require the use of a loom or other apparatus to hold the beadwork. The beads are stitched to each other by securing the bead of the current row to the bead in the same position in the previous row.

To count your rows in square stitch, count the last bead on the outside edge of each row of beads.

When working in square stitch, the first row is the first set of beads that you pick up on your thread, marked in the diagram by the letter "A". The second row begins at the bottom of the first row. The third row ("C") begins at the end of the second row.

Because flat Ndebele (herringbone) stitch is worked in a similar manner, you can also use this method to count your rows when working in that stitch.

Don't try to count your rows in the center of the beadwork because it is very easy to lose your place, particularly if you are working an intricate pattern with several colors.