I can't honestly say I'm a fuzzy-fibers aficionado. Oh, I've learned to knit and I've attempted crochet, but for some reason, I haven't been able to wrap my heart around anything but a needle and thread. But you know what? I recently put my hands on a book called The Beaded Edge by Midori Nishida, and I think I need to get over this goofy block of mine. The designs in this book, which are primarily crocheted edges and trims, are so delicious that I found myself rummaging around for my size 5 crochet hook and some thick thread. These crocheted trims are beautifully beaded, reminding me of the opulence of an Indian wedding ensemble or the embellishment on an antique bag from Pakistan. They are truly gorgeous. The projects are clearly shown with step-by-step photographs, and just about every embellishment is shown on a "real" piece of clothing or is made up as a piece of jewelry.

So yes, this is a good book. So good, in fact, that I decided to get over myself, sit down, and once again attempt bead crochet. As I mentioned, I'm not an expert at this, just a rank beginner. But maybe you are, too? If so, maybe you'd like to try this little technique I found in The Beaded Edge? It's really just the beginning of a more elaborate design, but I thought making this little loop fringe might be a good start for me:

1) String a bunch of size 8° seed beads on size FF beading thread without cutting the thread from the spool. Be sure to string them in sets of 6 for this edging.

2) Create a slip knot at the end of your thread, then use a size 5 steel crochet hook to form a chain of 6 or so slip stitches to begin the chain. To do this simple chain, yarn over your hook then pull through the loop on your hook; repeat until you have the desired length. (It helped me to use the very easy illustrations in the book to learn how to make this chain; not the cleanest chain, but I'm learning!)

3) Slide 6 of the seed beads down to the crocheted chain.

4) Form another slip stitch, tightening the thread so the seed beads form a loop.

7) Form 6 more slip stitches to prepare for your next loop. Repeat Steps 6 and 7 to the desired length.

You could sew this edge to a piece of clothing or a purse or make a long chain for tying around your wrist or neck. So pretty!