How to Make a Beaded Frame for a Cabochon

A round or oval cabochon can be framed with peyote stitch seed beads and then attached to a necklace, bracelet or brooch, as desired. The cabochon is held in place while the seed beads are peyote stitched in place, and then smaller beads are added to the front and back to tighten the weave around the focal stone. Waxing the thread prevents it from tangling and adds to the strength of the thread.

Things You'll Need

• Size 11 seed beads
• 18 x 25 mm domed cabochon
• Size 15 seed beads
• 4 feet waxed thread
• Beading needle

Instructions

1. String an even number of size 11 seed beads on waxed thread and close the string to form a circle that fits around the cabochon.

2. Use a peyote stitch to add one size 11 seed bead above every other previously strung bead. Complete two rounds of peyote stitch.

3. Insert the cabochon into the circle of beads. Holding the cabochon in place, add additional rows of peyote stitch until you have completed six rounds and the cabochon is firmly secured.

4. Switch to size 15 seed beads and weave a round of peyote stitch around the top of the cabochon. Thread through this round again to tighten the bead bezel.

5. Weave the thread to the back of the cabochon and work a round of peyote stitch around the back, using size 15 seed beads. Thread through this round again and tighten the bezel. Weave the thread through the beads, and then secure and trim it.

6. If desired, add more rows of peyote stitch around the framework or use other stitches and additional decorative beads. Work beading into the desired brooch, necklace or bracelet.

Tips & Warnings

• Glue card stock and suede onto the completed piece to form a smooth back, if desired. Bead around these materials to unify the piece.

References

• Beadwork Presents: Favorite Bead Stitches; Interweave Press; Special Edition; p. 44