Uneven Flat Peyote Question.

Q: I really need some help here. I have charted out a flat peyote necklace. The main part of the necklace charted out at 67 beads across, and 126 rows down. The strap sort of melts into the main part of the necklace, meaning the design continues into the necklace part.

A: Being uneven, peyote is a challenge I know, but I don't really mind the jog at the end of every other row. Starting the danged thing is the real challenge. In the past, I would find an area of 3 rows of solid color and bead that first and then build on the pattern. The pattern does not even have 2 rows of the same color.....let alone 3. I have started, and restarted, this bugger 4 or 5 times and still, I get lost, I have done 'Barb Graniger's' 2 needle start, and it managed to twist over on the 4th row and I screwed up. I could bead 3 rows of dummy beads to get started, but then I would have to undo them. With uneven peyote, that would be a challenge in itself. String 70 beads, be sure you leave a few inches of tail. Work 2 rows to get a solid base. END at the end of row. With a NEW thread, start the 3rd row, but only work one row, again leave tails. NOW, on this base, carefully work your first few rows of the pattern. BE VERY CAREFUL not to go through the thread from the 3rd base row. Once you have worked at least 6-7 rows, in your 67 uneven count, carefully remove the thread from that third row. Those beads will fall to the table, but you should now have two stable pieces, one with two rows (which can be used again for similar purpose), and one with your design of 6-7 rows. The only wasted effort is that third row. You can, if you like, also create a reusable base around a dowel or other tube to help control any flat peyote until you have worked sufficient rows for it to support itself. Generally, I have found that most people tend to work in about the same size, so by making a resuable base, larger than their "norm" they always have it available to reuse.