While I was devouring my new "Beaded Jewelry with Found Objects" book, I saw a scalloped strap on a bag that had me very intrigued. Reading more closely, I discovered that it's a simple variant of even count Peyote stitch, so I had to try it out this evening. Sorry - no pictures: DH is taking the girls on our annual Spring Break vacation, and has packed the digital camera. (Boo-hoo, I can't go this year, because I'd never make the 14 hour ride)
Anyway, this is so simple, I don't need pictures. Make a six bead wide strap of Peyote stitch, approximately 25% longer than you want your finished piece. Use very, very loose tension, almost loose enough to see the threads - you'll end up with a very floppy, messy looking strap. (This was the hardest part for me, since I habitually make my stuff so tight it stands on its own) Don't worry, it's supposed to be this way.
Then, double thread a needle and knot it. Starting at one end, go diagonally through six beads, which will get you to the other side of your strap. Move over one bead, then go diagonally through six beads the other way. You're making what look like "W"s all along the piece. Pull the doubled thread as tight as you dare. (Use a smaller sized needle if you have to - I needed a size #12 needle for Delicas, but a size #11 needle worked fine for both the Peyote and "W"s with 11/0 Japanese seed beads) BTW, a stretchy thread like Nymo would not work for this - the curves would flatten out in time.
The finished product is a gorgeous scalloped piece that reminds me of ocean waves. It also looks a lot harder than it really is. As is my habit, I made several samples with different beads, and found that seed beads make a prettier finished product than Delicas. Also, the looser the tension when making the Peyote strap, the more pronounced the curves will be.
Kathy N-V