Inspiration Monday: Beaded Crochet Bags

Inspiration Monday could not have come at a more perfect time. Sometimes I'll get a sudden urge to start a new project (like a food craving, thankfully without any caloric consequences) and this time around it's for beaded crochet. There's nothing more therapeutic than planting myself in a peaceful setting and crocheting my heart out. 

Victorian Miser's Bag 

Coming up with a project idea can also be a task in itself; there’s just so much out there. All it takes for me is a quick Internet search and the virtual journey begins, and I’m almost overwhelmed by the possibilities. But time after time, it doesn't take too long for me to fall back in love with a challenge I have yet to conquer, the small beaded crochet bag or purse.  

The beaded bag alone seems to have an ever-evolving history…dating as far back as the 1800s - and even further. Originally the techniques and patterns used to create these handmade treasures were guarded as family secrets passed down through generations. However, it wasn't long before these old world accessories hit the marketplace and took on a life of their own. 

1920's Flapper Purse

A boom seems to have taken place during The Roaring 20s, and understandably so...I can only imagine what a perfect accessory the beaded bag must have been to the dedicated flapper of the day. But the evolution of the beaded bag didn't stop there. New variations and styles continue to change and develop even today as much as our imaginations can allow. I have managed to find pieces from almost every decade and pulled a couple of my favorite finds to share with you. I also found a great book titled Clark's 100 Crochet Designs for Bags originally published in the 1920s. 

So take a step back in time with me, and check out these beauties from history.

-Marie