How Do You Do Native American Running Stitch Beadwork?
The running stitch is an indispensable embroidery stitch that is not only easy to create, but is also functional. The stitch is used to create an overlay, or applique, of beading to cover a large area. Although beadwork was only introduced to tribes 200 to 300 years ago, it is considered a true Native American craft, according to Horace R. Goodhue in his book, “Indian Bead-Weaving Patterns,” because it was formed from earlier skills such as shell, stone, wood and quill crafting that developed with no outside influence. Outline the pattern onto the piece of fabric using either a water-soluble pen or tailor’s chalk. Thread the needle with beading thread, 16 inches long, pulling an equal amount of thread through the eye. Tie a knot at the ends. Push the needle through the fabric from behind, starting on the pattern, pulling until the knot catches behind the fabric. String two or more beads onto the needle, and push the needle back through the front of the fabric along the pattern line, le
