This is a beaders’ choice issue. We use Nymo Size D thread for the peyote stitch and, because of the number of passes made through each bead, B for the strap because it produces a sturdy enough product to endure considerable real-life use. However, there are several popular threads on the market that will work including the following:

C-Lon: A nylon monochord thread (composed of many parallel strands of nylon bonded together in a single-ply like yarn fibers). Available in 36 colors, it is the same thickness as D Nymo and can be threaded on a size 15 or thicker needle. Use it in shorter lengths to reduce fraying; three (3) to five (5) feet is max. Matte beads really speed up fraying, but it is nearly two-and-a-half times stronger than D Nymo, stretches less, and is not easily cut by crystals.

Silamide: Size A, originally for tailors, consists of a two-ply nylon thread twisted together. Snip (not lick) the thread end to restring. It does not split or fray easily and does not need waxing or conditioning.

Nymo: This is the traditional standard in brick and peyote stitchwork. It is slightly waxed, lightly twisted, is not bonded, will split, and can stretch, sag, or fan out over time. Most of the unwanted stretch, or sag, can be eliminated by slightly stretching the thread before you start work. Wax or Thread Heaven work well on curbing fray. Melting with a lighter makes a quick, sturdy, and permanent knot. Try it, you will like it.

Kevlar: This thread is the strongest synthetic fiber in the world. While it is difficult to cut and is heat resistant, it is less likely to stretch over time (less than 1% stretch). However, it is sensitive to abrasion and is susceptible to wearing and breaking if there are burrs in your bead holes. It also deteriorates from extended exposure to sunlight.