A Plain-stitch Open Crochet Purse.
Make a chain of one hundred and sixty, or one hundred and seventy stitches; to the last stitch of this, crochet a short chain of five stitches, the last of which is again to be crocheted to the fifth stitch of the chain; repeat this on the whole length of the foundation; and return along the row in the same way, by attaching every fifth stitch to the centre stitch of each loop of the last row. The whole of the purse is to be continued in the same manner, but it may be varied, according to taste, by using two or more colours. When the purse is worked to the size desired, cut a piece of stiff cardboard, and sew the purse firmly to it,—the wrong side outwards; then, damp it with water, and allow it to remain until dry. This process will stretch the purse, tighten the stitches, and bring them all into their proper places. Then, having sewn or crocheted up the sides, draw up the ends and put on the trimmings.—This purse should only be made with fine silk.
The pattern No. 1 ([page 16]) represents this stitch.