I have been a knitter for many years but didn’t discover the art of Bead Knitting until a few years ago when I volunteered at the Sheboygan County Historical Museum. The museum had a collection of beaded purses, several of which were 100 – 200 years old. When I found that most of them were knitted, I delved into research and figured out how they were made. It became my passion to re-create them. I have since written a book about bead knit purses and am working on another one, as well as posting a web site www.nancyalison.com. I specialize in reproducing vintage purses but I’ve developed many patterns that are unique and new.

I create purses for weddings, gifts, display and décor. I have many purses in my studio but can custom design a purse to match a bride’s dress, a favorite motif, a combination of colors or anything that inspires.

Another great passion of my life is my faith in God. It has carried me through the tragedies of the death of a child and breast cancer, but seen me through the good times too, and reminded me to give credit for my creative ability to the one who created me.

“Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail…for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:33