If you like the vintage mesh style in coin purses and handbags, this might be of interest. Did you know that each link has to be hand applied to create the design? There are no machines, that I know of, that can produce the chain mail mesh of these unique purses and bags. I have recently started creating these unique little purses and have found that just one small bag can take up to 20 hours in labor to create. That's not including the embelishments that might be added, like the fringe or jeweled decorations to give each bag that distinct flair. Some of these bags I design can be used to hold cell phones and iPods, too! I never thought about that untill a recent customer suggested that she wanted one of my purses for her cell phone. I modified the purse she selected by adding another half inch in length, and the cell phone fit perfectly. The need for special tools are a must, if you really want to get into this unique nitche. Most craft stores sell jewelry making tool kits which are the perfect size for this. They will include needlenose pliers, wire cutters, and other tools, which can cost from about $10-$20. Of course, you can also purchase each tool separately, also. I buy spools of wire in gold tone or silver tone. Spools of this type of craft wire can come in a varety of colors and gauge sizes. (I haven't tried making a mesh purse from a colored wire, yet, but I'll bet it could become a trend among the younger generations who really like the "bling.") I can make the chain links by wrapping the wire on a thin dowel or I can purchase the links, pre-made, from a craft store or supplier. There are many internet shops online where you can purchase most all of these supplies. I purchase the purse clasp from a supplier online, as these are relatively hard to find in craft stores. You can do a Google search for "purse clasps" and you will get a list of sites that can supply you with a variety of these clasps for your purse size. Look for the ones that have the little holes pre-drilled along the clasp edges so you can attach the links to the clasp. Once you have all the tools and supplies, you are set to begin making your own vintage style, chain mail mesh purse. (*NOTE: Try using split ring links instead of jump ring links. Bags and purses made from these are almost indestructable. The links will not pull apart like jump ring links.) 1. Start by attaching a link to each of the holes along the clasp. 2. Link the links together across the next row. 3. Continue linking links together, along each row till you get double the length of your desired purse. 4. Attach the left and right corners of your chain mail mesh to the other side of your clasp. (Make sure all the clasp holes have links in them.) 5. Continue attaching links in rows across till you can attach the final row to the top links on the clasp. Your purse should be finished. You can embelish with charms, gems, beads or crystals. Add some chain fringe to the bottom, if desired. Decorate your purse, any way you desire. Have fun and be creative. JewelrySpinner-L.S.