Beaded Pistol Stitch

As you may know, I have been focused on getting the basic stitches in place on my latest crazy quilt project. Coming up with all of the various stitch combinations is quite a challenge to my creativity as I try not to use the same beads and the same stitch. A change in the bead size shape and color can go a long way in making each stitch look different. Fast becoming my favorite stitch, the beaded pistol stitch can be used to form a gentle zig-zag pattern or an alternating pattern that is quite versatile.
Start with a straight stitch of 4 -5 seed beads or a bugle bead. I usually work with size 11 or 15 seed beads.

The "knot" is created with three bead stitched in a loop and the thread going back through the middle bead to hold it down.

1. Bring the needle up at point A

2. String on 4-5 beads or a bugle bead

3. Bring needle down through fabric at point B

4. Bring needle up just to the left of point B
5. To form the "beaded knot" String on 3 beads
6. Bring needle down just to the right of point B
7. Bring needle up at point C
8. Thread needle through bead 2
9. Bring needle down at point D

TIP: To achieve straight flat stitch, string on beads and push down the thread to the fabric. Pull thread taught and lay flat against the fabric. Use needle to tap the beads to position and see where you need to make your stitch. Too short and the bead arch up, too long and the bead float around.

The beaded knot stitch works great as a finishing touch on the ends of a feather stitch...

Another example of the beaded knot, done in a contrasting color the bead take on a look of budding flowers.