You begin a brick stitch by creating a base row using the ladder stitch technique. This forms the foundation upon which subsequent rows of brick stitch are built.
The Foundation: Ladder Stitch
The initial step for starting a brick stitch involves creating a base row using the ladder stitch. This technique involves stringing a series of beads together side by side. Here's how it's done:
- Step 1: Initial Beads: Begin by stringing two beads onto your thread.
- Step 2: Passing through Bead: Pass the needle back through the first bead.
- Step 3: Tightening: Pull the thread to tighten, securing the two beads side by side.
- Step 4: Adding Next Bead: Pick up a third bead and pass the needle back through the previous bead.
- Step 5: Continue: Repeat Step 4 to add more beads to create your desired length for the base row.
This ladder stitch creates a secure base that is essential for the brick stitch. This base row acts as an anchor for the following rows, which are attached by sewing through the stitches of the layer below.
Building the Brick Stitch
Once the ladder stitch base is complete, the brick stitch technique can begin. The brick stitch creates an offset pattern. Each new row is sewn through the thread holding the previous row together. This is how the brick stitch develops its characteristic staggered look.
- Starting a new row: Pick up the first bead for the new row, and pass your needle under the thread between the first two beads of the ladder stitch row.
- Securing the new bead: Pass the needle up through the new bead you have added. This locks the new bead into place, resting on the top of the base row.
- Continue adding beads: Repeat this process to add each subsequent bead, passing under the thread holding the base beads together, and then back up through the new bead.
- Creating the offset: The position where you pass under the thread will naturally off-set each bead in the new row, creating the brick stitch effect.
The ladder stitch forms the critical starting point for the brick stitch. Each row of the brick stitch relies on the ladder stitch row below. The result is a strong, flexible beadwork with a visually appealing pattern.
