Crochet Hat Patterns with Paillette Bangle Beads

Those of us old enough to remember the 1960's may recall that Bangle Beads were quite a hit in the needlework arena -- particularly crocheted hats. The times, for the younger set, were Mod, and these perfectly fit the bill.

The bangles (now called Paillettes) were introduced by Walco Bead Co in the early 1960's. . The concept for bangle beads, of course, was there all along in the role of sequins, which were already a strong seller for Walco. Walco created the 'new' product by making the sequins larger and in a variety of shapes with the hole situated on the edge, versus the middle - creating both sparkle and movement.

Walco took the bangles on a small marketing blitz, with several newspaper and magazine advertisements. They also published three pamphlets to market their 'new' bangle beads. I have located just one of these books, which is available in the shop, should you be interested.

Now, with the history lesson over, are you ready for some fun. Below are the crocheted bangle hats given in the Walbead Bangle book. The concept for the patterns were quite simple ..... take an easy crochet hat pattern, add in some loop stitches, with a bangle attached.

Oct 17th 2024 Lorrie @ Vintage Knit Crochet Pattern Shop