Ladder Stitch is a bead weaving technique commonly used as the base for other stitches e.g. Brick Stitch and Herringbone Stitch. On its own, the technique can be used to create simple but beautiful beaded jewelry.

Any type of beads can be used but seed beads such as Miyuki Delicas and Bugle beads are popular.​

In this tutorial, I will explain how to create a strip of beadwork using Ladder Stitch.

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Ladder Stitch Tutorial

I have made both a video and a written tutorial for this beading pattern.

Below is the materials list. Click any of the links to purchase the supplies required for this project.

Materials

8/0 Delica beads (A)

Beading thread

1 size 10 beading needle

Thread burner or sharp scissors

Bead mat

Here is the video tutorial:

Below is the full written tutorial.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Thread your needle with a comfortable length of beading thread.

String 2A.

Step 2: Go through the first 1A from the tail end.

Step 3: Go through the second A (towards the tail).

Step 4: String 1A and go through the second A again from the side opposite where the working thread is exiting.

Step 5: Pass through the third A just added.

Step 6: String 1A and go through the third A from the side opposite where the working thread is exiting.

Step 7: Go through the fourth bead just added.

Step 8: In the event that you want to use a strip of Ladder Stitch as the foundation for Tubular Herringbone Stitch, you would need to turn the beadwork into a circle.

To do that, pass through the first A from the tail end.

Step 9: Then go through the fourth bead.

Note: I have left my thread loose just so it's easier for you to see what I have done.​

Step 10: To complete the circle and get into position to add your next row of beads, pass through the first bead from the tail end once more.

Congrats! You have now learned Ladder Stitch!

Enjoyed this Ladder Stitch tutorial? Shop our selection of easy-to-follow PDF beading patterns!