Victorian Purses and Amulet Bags in Bead Crochet

The front cover displays one bag in color. The instructions and illustrations inside are black and white. The bags are a combination of soft doily type overlay patterns that are attached to the purse liners. The crochet is very open and allows the fabric of the liners to show through and enhance the overall appearance. The fabric liners can be hand or machine stitched. She describes fabrics and interfacing that can be used.. She has provided an outline for each purse liner that can be photocopied for use in making each bag. You could make a crocheted overlay for only the front or make two, one for the front and one for the back side. I have never seen any patterns like this, they remind me of antique lace reticule purses of the past. Instructions for making tassels and adding dangles are fully illustrated. In addition, making purse straps and bead embellishment with illustrations are included. Some techniques can be used for other crocheted artwork and jewelry. Each crochet motif has diagram with universal symbols. Special bead stitches are listed and identified. Experienced crocheters will appreciate the inclusion of these diagrams. Small beads are pre-strung for the bead crochet and larger beads are stitched onto the crocheted motifs. Motifs are crocheted in the round, flat. Pattern stitches are listed and some bead stitches are explained in-depth. She has included some bead crochet techniques that are very helpful. General Instructions offers tips and good information for beginners. Thread size varies with each bag, from thicker size 10 crochet cotton thread to thinner 12 pearl cotton. There is are photo illustrations on page 9 which shows you each thickness of thread crocheted into the same motif and their size in relation to each other. You need to already know how to crochet and be comfortable with basic crochet stitches to make the patterns in this book.