If you’re struggling with odd-count peyote stitch, I highly recommend the two-needle method—it’s much faster! Below, I’ve explained this technique with step-by-step images to help you master it.
Cut twice the length of thread required for the pattern (or a length you’re comfortable working with), thread a needle onto each end, and then find the midpoint. (Needles A and B are color-coded in the images for clarity.)
Position the first two rows at the center of the thread, then begin stitching the third row.
After completing the third row, ensure both needles face the same direction and the threads are equal in length.
Start the fourth row by passing the back thread (needle A) through the last bead of the third row. (Tip: The end bead might feel tricky initially, but it gets easier with practice!)
Add the fifth row just like in even-count peyote stitch.
Begin the sixth row with the back thread (needle B), pass it through the last bead of the fifth row.
For the seventh row, continue by picking up a bead and going through the last bead that sticks up from the sixth row as you would for even-count peyote.
Repeat the process: Add rows using the even-count peyote technique; at the end of the odd-numbered row, switch to the back needle (remaining thread) and begin the next row with passing it through the final bead. This eliminates extra steps for needle repositioning!
I hadn’t used this technique before! Previously, I’d relied on two needles for longer projects (like bracelets), starting from the pattern’s center to minimize thread additions. (I’ll share how I combined this center-start approach with the two-needle method in a future post!)
Below is the link to the video tutorial where I learned this fast odd-count peyote stitch hack.