Embellish Some History

Crochet edgings add the perfect finishing touch to these vintage coin purses!

One of my favorite books, <a href="https://www.interweave.com/the-beaded-edge-2?utmsource=needleworktraditions.com&utmmedium=referral&utmcampaign=nt-gkb-bl-150612-SFHBS15" target="blank">The Beaded Edge 2 combines two of my loves: history and gorgeous beaded embellishments. When I started turning the pages, I was captivated by the myriad edgings and trims (and frankly, the “For Beginners” section gave me hope). Then I found the history section—the edgings in the book were inspired by traditional Turkish oya, edgings that decorated scarves. But they can decorate almost anything—shirts, purses, T-shirts, shawls, stoles, shoes (!), hats, skirts, window coverings, and more. All you need are beads, thread or yarn, and a crochet hook. I’m enthralled. I think you will be, too.

And now is the time to check it out—Interweave’s annual Hurt Book Sale is going on now! This is a great opportunity to adopt a little-less-than-perfect book at a great price and start embellishing. I’m working up to the glorious Sun-Soaked Flower Garden!

Enjoy,