I can't think of another bead-weaving stitch that is as
versatile as
herringbone stitch. Maybe I'm biased - herringbone stitch is,
after all, my go-to beading stitch when I want to make a beaded rope for a
pendant, a beaded bezel for a cabochon or a crystal stone, or make a fancy
beaded collar.
With its origins in the heart of South Africa's Ndebele
tribe, there is a rich history of culture and craft behind herringbone stitch.
Herringbone stitch is instantly recognizable from the distinctive "v" pattern
formed by the beads and thread path.
Herringbone stitch and all of its wonderful variations can
be used for just about any beading task at hand. Need a quick beaded rope or
lariat? Try making a soft, supple, and strong herringbone rope. A strong and
sturdy base for beaded necklaces and bracelets can be made with flat
herringbone. Tubular herringbone, with or without a twist, is the perfect way
to create substantial beaded bracelets and necklaces that are just begging for
a little embellishment!
Because we love herringbone stitch, we've put together six
of our favorite herringbone stitch beading patterns for you in our latest free
eBook, Beading Daily's Guide to Herringbone Stitch: 7 Free Herringbone Patterns. Look at what's in
store for you:
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First, let Jean Campbell, our resident bead-weaving
genius, take you through basic herringbone stitch and beyond with her Stitch
Pro column.
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I've always said that beading is the best
therapy around, and apparently, Margo Field agrees. Her Therapy Necklace uses a
simple herringbone tube that you can embellish to your heart's desire.
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If you've ever thought that basic herringbone
tubes were boring, check out Maggie's Weave by Marlene Blessing. Adding a
splash of colorful stripes and mixing in some wonderful silver beads will give
you a basic herringbone necklace that's casual, yet stylish.
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Learn the basics of twisted tubular herringbone
with Doris Coghill's Fresh Twist. This simple and refreshing herringbone
necklace can be used to showcase your favorite glass bead!
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Lynn Davy's Cairo Necklace is a perfect example
of how a strong herringbone stitch base can be embellished with larger beads
for a modern, sophisticated look.
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Herringbone tubes and ropes are wonderfully
supple and soft, and Maria Theresa Ferreira takes full advantage of these
qualities with her Modern Medieval Ring. Bend and swirl a simple herringbone
rope to capture a beautiful crystal pearl focal bead!
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Finally, combine both tubular twisted and flat
circular herringbone stitch in Leslee Frumin's fabulous Purple Anemone
necklace. You'll give your newly-developed herringbone stitch skills a real
workout while you create a stunning piece of beaded jewelry!
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So grab your favorite tube of seed beads and get
comfortable, because once you start stitching these projects using herringbone
stitch, you'll find it's very hard to stop. (Don't say I didn't warn you!)
Download your free copy of Beading Daily's Guide to Herringbone Stitch: 7 Free Herringbone Patterns and get busy beading!
Bead Happy,
Jennifer
Filed under: Pearls, Crystals, Beaded Beads, Bead Making, Glass Beads, Herringbone Stitch, How To Bead, Seed Bead Patterns, Bead-weaving, Bracelet Making, Necklace Making, Bead Crafts, Beaded Jewelry Design, Beads, Jewelry Making, Beading Daily