Flat and Freeform Brick Stitch Technique

Brick Stitch is a bead weaving technique where individual beads are stacked horizontally in a similar pattern to the way bricks are stacked in a wall. It is also known as the Cheyenne Stitch or Comanche Stitch. This bead weaving pattern is used all around the world from Africa to the Middle East to North and South America. Throughout history, the brick stitch technique has been used by Native Americans of the United States. This beading technique is an off-loom technique. It is very similar to peyote stitch patterns. Brick stitch is like peyote stitch turned sideways 90 degrees and slightly stiffer. The beginning of a brick stitch is made by sewing a series of beads that lay side-by-side; this technique is called ladder stitch. Those these stitches are all related peyote stitch patterns, ladder stitch designs, and brick stitch projects are each unique in their own way and allow bead weavers to create intricate and stunning homemade jewelry designs.