Beginning Felting Crochet-Along

[MommaChelle]

Hello ladies!! This crochet-along will be for those of us who have always wanted to felt but never really knew how to get started or go about felting. I just finished felting my second bag and am really enjoying the finished look! I had been wanting to try felting for over a year but it just seemed so foreign to me and I couldnt grasp exactly what needed to be done. Now after doing it, I realize it's SOOOO easy!!

So, what we will be doing is felting together! We'll all get our yarn, then start on the pattern at the same time, then felt at the same time (with my instructions), and share pictures of our finished pieces after they have dried for 2 days! We'll all do the same pattern (that I will write up, something super easy for a first felting project, but that you will want to use after it's done or give as a gift) so if there's any questions it will be a lot easier since we are all doing the same thing.

Who's up for the challenge? :)

[Needle Arts]

I've been wanting to try this for some time. Looked at yarn the other day and there are so many synthetics. Am I correct in understanding that this works best with 100% wool yarns?

[scc51055]

Count me in... i almost bought wool yarn tonight to start a bag!

[MommaChelle]

Yarn: I need everyone to purchase a 100% wool yarn such as Patons Classic Wool Merino Yarn, or Lion Brand Wool yarn. Make sure that the wool yarn you purchase is NOT a superwash wool, and make sure it is not a blend of acrylics or other synthetics. It CAN be a wool/mohair blend since it is all animal fiber.

What you need for this pattern: 2 balls (3 oz. each) Main Color, 1 ball contrasting color, and optional fun fur or eyelash (nylon) yarn for pizzaz :)

P size crochet hook

This pattern will be worked with 2 strands of yarn held together.

[Needle Arts]

Found this site tonight: www.knitting-warehouse.com (http://www.knitting-warehouse.com)

Seems to have good prices on yarn for both Paton's Classic Wool and Caron has a new "Felting Yarn" in varigated colors. Fun site to explore.

[MommaChelle]

knitting-warehouse.com is the website where I buy most of my yarn. Great site and pretty decently fast shipping.

[ankey]

Knitting Warehouse is a great place to buy yarn online. If you have a Hobby Lobby in the area though, they have Lion Wool yarn on sale for 3.88 a skein until uh... today. Luckily I found out about this sale just in time (about to buy online) and I was finally able to convince a friend to take me to buy yarn tomorrow morning. Hopefully they will have P-sized hooks there too...

[sherryzzz]

Through today, Michaels has Patons Classic Wool yarn on sale for $3.77 (at least in so. California). What a bargain! I usually need about 3-4 skeins of Patons (100g/220yds) to make a large size bag. Now what colors don't I have???.....:D

[cristin~FL]

My Michael's has the same sale....I NEED to get up there!!

Are we making a Bag (yes?), or what exactly?
Going :yarn shopping

[MommaChelle]

Yes, this will be a felted bag :)

[saraelizabeth]

I'd like to join in. I've never done a CAL before, but willing to give it a try. When are we getting started?

[scc51055]

I will use my 40% coupon to get what i need.....when do we need to have the yarn? i think i have a p hook i have a large gray one that is not marked....but i think that is it!

[Everyday Crochet]

What colors is everyone thinking.

Can we use a varigated? There was a varigated in the Patons that I wanted to use....????

[tezcatlipoca98]

ac moore has all yarn 20% off until wednesday around here. check if it is going on at yours.http://www.acmoore.com

[Melibean223]

I was just curious what pattern was going to be used for this? Are you all planning on doing the same bag or is everyone doing something different.

[MommaChelle]

Because this is a beginners felting crochet along, we will all work the same crochet pattern for the bag, and wash our bags at the same time with instructions on how to do so at that time. So we wont get started until most of us have our yarn and are ready to go.

I wanted those who have never tried felting before but have been wanting to try, to do this crochet-along to see it really is very easy to felt! :)

You can use a variegated wool yarn, yep.

[ginamaria73]

I would like to do this too..I have yarn..& hooks..I am ready!

[crochetprincess66]

I have always wanted to try felting. I would like to join this CAL, but I probably won't be able to get the yarn until the end of the week.


Kim :princess

[Everyday Crochet]

I wont be able to get mine until this Thursday. I planned to purchase some wool last week but my little guy was sick and didn't need to go to this therapy appointments so I didn't go to town.

I'm so excited!!!! :yes :yay :cheer :clap :c9

[LadyBeBop]

How big is this bag? How long will this take?

I'm tempted to joint (always wanted to learn to felt); however, so many things going on.

[Robyn]

I'd love to try this (been wanting to try felting for a while, now) butsince I'm at school now it's rather difficult to do. I might follow along and just do the felting when I'm home for weekends or a break, though!

[pinkroses]

I might join in? I will go and look at the yarn this week. I have wanted to learn. a P hook you say. ? Hum Have to put that on my list.
I love those hooks that are gold and have the flat neck Soft touch by clover. But, I don't see them in a P hook . I will look at AcMoores maybe. PINKROSES

[cristin~FL]

Okay, I bought my yarn. I got black for the MC and grey for the CC. I'm not sure if I'll be using a fun fur or not?? This feels weird to me not knowing exactly what I'm making. I know it's a bag / purse - but do you have any (post) felted dimensions?? I don't mean to be a pain in the butt....I'm just curious.
And, the biggest reason I haven't tried felting is because I have a front load washing machine that locks the door. I've tried turning it off to retreive items during the course and had to start it all over because it wouldn't cancel and unlock the door!! grrrr...... so, I guess I'm going to be trying the plunger (brand new) in a 5 gallon bucket method. :shrug Hopefully that'll work.

[scc51055]

Are we to purchase a pattern? or is it a free one that needs to be down loaded???????? all this suspence i cant stand it!!!!!!!!!

[mamaoso]

Good place for wool yarn is; Knitpicks (http://knitpicks.com)
I'm using some for my clogs I'm knitting and felting. they have bulky and chunky so you don't have to use a double strand of yarn..

[MommaChelle]

This will be a free pattern

Please post when you have your yarn. Thanks!

[Stacy25]

Knitpicks has awesome wool! And it's half the price of Jo-ann's or Michael's. Of course, you have to wait for the shipping but...it's totally worth it.
I've felted many things, so I won't be joining this CAL, but I will be following along because I'm dying to know what you all are making! LoL

[scc51055]

sorry if i missed the info on the pattern.....i know it will be a bag but didnt know if i need to get a pattern too.................

[sherryzzz]

...the biggest reason I haven't tried felting is because I have a front load washing machine that locks the door. I've tried turning it off to retreive items during the course and had to start it all over because it wouldn't cancel and unlock the door!! grrrr...... so, I guess I'm going to be trying the plunger (brand new) in a 5 gallon bucket method. Hopefully that'll work.

Without opening the door, are you able to reset the wash cycle back to the beginning, so that you can repeat the wash cycle 2-3 times without draining and refilling?

[fuzzbugjr]

:worried Would Lion Wool / Lion Wool Prints work :think for felting?

I :D found 2 skeins of Rose and 2 skeins of Autumn Sunset.

[MommaChelle]

Yes, Lion wool/prints will work! I buy patons classic wool merino because it's cheaper than the lion wool.

[ankey]

uh oh, we need a certain type of washer and/or dryer to felt? I didn't know that... I might not be able to participate after all...

[MommaChelle]

The washing machine should be a top loading machine so you can pull your wool out during the agitation (wash) cycle to pull it into shape and throw back in the wash to agitate it some more.

Your dryer will not come into play as you do not throw your felted piece into the dryer - you let it air dry for a day and a half to two days.

If you have a front loading washer, if there's any way you can turn the knob to drain the water after 15-20 minutes of agitation so you can open the wash and take your piece out.

[dsabol]

Hmm...I've always wanted to try felting. I saw a sample of a felted piece the other day and I was amazed at how sturdy it felt. (ha! "felt" No pun intended) :lol I crack myself up. hehe

Anyway, I really have too many projects going...but I think I'll join. A bag shouldn't take too long....right? :P

I can get my yarn anytime. Do you know when you'll post the pattern? Oh, I'm so curious about the pattern. :D :clap

I'll be watching this thread, ready to go! :hook

[mamaoso]

My front loader will let me open the door during the wash cycle, but if it goes beyond the wash cycle then I can't open it..

[scc51055]

I have a new top loader and i think i may have to rest it if i have to open the lid i guess i will find out

[cristin~FL]

Without opening the door, are you able to reset the wash cycle back to the beginning, so that you can repeat the wash cycle 2-3 times without draining and refilling?
I'm not sure....I've never tried that in particular -- i can mess around with it a bit this week to see EXACTLY what I can & can't do.
I didn't mean to freak anyone out about their washing machines :eek ....it was just one experience I had with mine. :blush I'm sure with so many people felting out there that there HAS to be a trick to mine and all of the other front loaders.

[scc51055]

i have found that if i stop it to add some thing to it it resets to the beginning.....

[Everyday Crochet]

I'm getting my yarn on Thursday. :clap I can't wait to start!!!! :cheer :hook

[andrea2006]

I think I would like to join this as well and learn how to do it. I may stay alittle behind though with working all day and running the kids at night but I'm excited to learn something new.

[LadyBeBop]

I have a different style washer, and I don't know if I felt with it.

It doesn't have an agitator per se. :eek

Bought it new about 2 1/2 years ago and works great. I hope it works great; we spent nearly $1,000 on it (plus another grand on the dryer). It was the top of the line Maytag back then...and it just doesn't have an agitator.

Please don't ask me the chemestry behind my machine getting my clothes clean...it just does. :D

One other thing....I can stop the machine at any time...however I cannot open the door while it's in the wash cycle. I can open it before (when it's in soak), and I can open it afterwards (when it's in rinse). Does that make a difference?

[cristin~FL]

I know it's possible.....so I Googled "crochet felt bucket" and came across this site (http://www.fuzzygalore.biz/articles/fulling.shtml) that is very informative -- and I'm sure there are others out there too. Anyway, those of us with front loaders will just get a better upper body workout than the top loader girls :lol
--just a word of caution: with the word "bucket" in my search I ended up getting a lot of bucket hat / purse patterns but I wanted to get some manual felting directions -- you get better results with the word plunger. ;)
HTH

[Deb]

I've felted many times already... so I won't be joining. I will, however, be watching this thread and :cheer cheering :cheer you all on!

2 - 4 - 6 - 8 ! Felting gals are really great! goooooooo Felters! :cheer

[pinkroses]

I brought my yarn and the hook yeseterday. only didn't get the fun fur. Planning on doing something different. PINKROSES

[scc51055]

I have the yarn and am ready to hook!!!!!!!!!!!

[OneCraftySAHM]

I want in on this one too! I've been wanting to felt but was just too scared to try it all by my lonesome, LOL! I got my yarn today, so I'm all set!

Thanks and Hugs!

:hook

[saraelizabeth]

I'll definately join in on this one. I'll get my yarn this weekend. Do you think we will be ready to start by october1? Just wondering when we're gna start. I'm not trying to rush anyone. I'm just excited. What colors is everyone doing? Is using fun fur easier to use with another yarn? I tried to make a scarf with just fun fur, but I didn't get far because I had a really hard time seeing my stitches.

[saraelizabeth]

what thickness do we need?

[OneCraftySAHM]

I got Patons Classic Merino Wool in Natural Mix (beige color) for the main color and Grey Mix (Grey obviously) for the contrasting color. I picked colors that could go with anything since I have no idea what kind of bag were doing. This is such a nice yarn, I'm so used to the cheapy stuff that I don't know what I'm going to do with myself when I start crocheting with it! :lol

:hook I'm excited too!

Oh and I'm not using fun fur, hope that's ok.

[scc51055]

I got the patons classic in a deep pink and the one called rosewood, it is pinks and browns for the primary color....i am ready to go

[esta]

I just found this cal.

I have always felt nervous about felting, but I would love to give it a go.

Can't wait to start...:D

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Is it too late to join?

[dsabol]

No, it's not too late. We're waiting for the pattern.

Has anyone heard from the originator of this forum since Monday? It looks like she hasn't responded since then.

I'm curious about when we're getting the pattern.

[OneCraftySAHM]

I think she said we would start it on Monday...I think she's going out of town. I'm actually heading out now until late Monday!

Happy Crocheting! Can't wait to start felting!

Talk to you all soon :-)

:hug

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Ok I am in. Have pulled a few patterns off the net but really not sure how to go about it and this sounds like fun..Cant wait to get the pattern

[ginamaria73]

I'm excited too. I've never done a crochet along before. Other than saying I'm in--do I have to do anything else?

[scc51055]

purchase your yarn and hook and your are in with the rest of us! (see the first post as to what type yarn and how much)

[crochetprincess66]

I'll be getting my yarn and hook this weekend. Can't wait to start.

Kim :princess

[Everyday Crochet]

I got my yarn and hook today. I have never crocheted anything with such a huge hook before. :eek I'm going to practice with it a bit this weekend.

It was hard to pick colors not knowing what I was making. For me I need to see it in order to visualize the way I would like to make it. I got the Lion Prints in Majestic Mountain ( I think that is what it was called) and got a brown as a cooridinating color.

[auntbubbels]

Theresa - thanks for the heads up about this post. I am going to go shopping this weekend and will pick up my yarn. I have never felted and always wanted to try it !!! I can't wait :cheer

[ginamaria73]

K..I got dark brown & cream Paton's merino wool & some brown sparkly eyelash yarn just in case and last but not least-my P hook. So! I am ready. :)

[dsabol]

K..I got dark brown & cream Paton's merino wool & some brown sparkly eyelash yarn just in case and last but not least-my P hook. So! I am ready. :)

Ooh, that color combination sounds pretty...I was looking at the yarn the other day and I couldn't decide what colors to get, because I didn't know what it was going to look like. I almost went for fall colors (oranges & reds), but I don't really wear clothes that color. :lol I thought I might wait until we get the pattern and run out that day to get the yarn.

I like the sound of yours though. What brand of eyelash yarn did you get?

[andrea2006]

i have patons sws in wedgewood and i also bought patons some grey with a country blue, i couldnt wait to start and since i knit as well decided to start the boga bag. hopefully it will turn out fine.

[Everyday Crochet]

I believe we are all doing the same pattern right? That Michelle designed and will pm to us on Monday... is that correct?

[andrea2006]

Well we are I thought but didnt hear when we were getting the pattern so I began to knit one on my own. I did by different yarn to do hers as well.That way I can compare the knitting one with the crochet one.

[ginamaria73]

Ooh, that color combination sounds pretty...I was looking at the yarn the other day and I couldn't decide what colors to get, because I didn't know what it was going to look like. I almost went for fall colors (oranges & reds), but I don't really wear clothes that color. :lol I thought I might wait until we get the pattern and run out that day to get the yarn.

I like the sound of yours though. What brand of eyelash yarn did you get?

I think it is some lion brand..I'm not positive-but it has sparkles in it. I've been wondering what to use it for, and this might be it. I'll have to wait for Monday & see what the pattern sounds like too. am so excited about this..the suspense is killing me! :eek You know I was thinking about oranges & reds too, I really like fall colors. I think that would make a beautiful bag.Even if you don't wear those colors, it would be pretty.

[auntbubbels]

OK, I am ready to go - I went and bought my yarn. I am going with black and grey and I forgot to buy my fun fur but can always go back and get some. Now I have to remember that I belong to this crochet along!!!! :cheer

[caednkat]

I've got my hook and my main color
Patons Classic Wool Merino in Royal Purple

for my accent color I'm trying to decide between Peacock (dark teal) and Harvest (Dark teal, Royal purple, leaf green, and burgandy verigated).

I'm leaning more towards the harvest right now. Either way I'm waiting until tomorrow to pick it up in hopes that Michaels has a coupon.

Mandi

[LadyBeBop]

I'll pick up one of the skeins of yarn at Hobby Lobby tomorrow..yes they do have the 40% coupon this week. And hooks are on sale also, so I'll pick up my hook as well.

I'm still not sure if I can felt in my washer. Someone over at the felting forum here at Crochetville suggested that I crochet a swatch, throw it in my washer and see if that will felt. I'll do that tomorrow night.

Assuming I can felt in my machine (or I get good instructions on how to felt without a maching), I'll probably be about a day behind most of y'all in the actual crocheting of the bag, but I can easily catch up....depending on how simple or complex the pattern is. I'm assuming it's a fairly simple bag that can be crocheted in a few hours.

That is, I'm hoping.

[Mapleleaf Mom]

Count me in too, I've been wanting to felt a purse , this will keep me on track. I have my yarn, I just have to double check for the 'p' hook!!

I've never done a crochet along this should be fun!!!

Cheryl

[pinkroses]

When are we going to start???
I have all my stuff. Just waiting and ready to go. :lol
pinkroses

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Its Monday and no pattern yet....*crying*

[Everyday Crochet]

I am trying to wait patiently... but it isn't working. :blush I've never felted before and am really anxious to start. :hook :hook

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Has anyone heard from *mommachelle*

[saraelizabeth]

WHen are we starting? It looks like most of us are ready.

[andrea2006]

I havnt heard anything either hmmm I am anxious just like the rest of you.

[acrhrttcwgrl]

I just emailed *mommachelle* Hopefully she will get back to us.:think Praying that nothing has happened to her or her family.:xfin I was also thinking that there are soo many of us wanting to do this CAL maybe we should just start with another pattern and hope *Chelle* comes back to us. I found this site and it looks easy enough. http://123crochet.blogspot.com/2006/01/small-project-tote.html
We can still do it as *Chelle* planned...all hook together and felt together and then dry together also. Let me know what ya'll think?


I will start this in about 48 hours. Want to give *chelle* time. Means starting Wednesday Oct 4, 2006.

[andrea2006]

I am game if everyone else is.

[ginamaria73]

O.k...I am so excited. I hope she comes through though, and everything is okay.

[ZingyZoid]

Have faith ladies, Chelle will be back. :)

[dsabol]

You know, there as a different bag I've had on my "to do" list for a long time. Maybe I'll work on that one if we don't hear from Chelle...I'd still be making a bag to felt, it just wouldn't be THE bag.

I hope I'm not stepping on any toes by posting this link, but this is the one I've had my eye on, and it sounds really similar to the one she had planned for us.

http://fuzzygalore.biz/patterns/fuzzybag.shtml

[cristin~FL]

I don't mean to come off as abrasive here, but I think it would be rude to start a different project when mommachelle is the one that got us all together and is willing to help us along the way! I for one will be waiting for her return - and saying some prayers for her safety in the meantime.
I think if you'd like to start a different felting project as a CAL, start a new thread.
just my :2c

[dsabol]

Hmm...I believe when the idea of starting a different project was posted, the person who suggested it also said she was hoping everything was ok, and said we could wait a few days to see how it turns out.

I was mearly mentioning that there was a similar project I have been considering for some time. Would you really even know if I was working on a different bag while this CAL was moving along?

Yeah, maybe I'll just do it myself.

[esta]

Give the poor girl a break; will ya!...... She's probably just having a long weekend.
There are already nine pages here and we haven't even started. She probably decided it was too hard and ran a mile. Just imagine how many pages there will be after we all start bombarding her with questions.

;)

[cristin~FL]

My comment was not meant to be a personal attack (on ANYONE here -- which I *did* clearly state) -- I honestly didn't mean to ruffle any feathers. I just saw the thread going in a different direction...that's all.

[cristin~FL]

I just emailed *mommachelle* Hopefully she will get back to us.:think Praying that nothing has happened to her or her family.:xfin I was also thinking that there are soo many of us wanting to do this CAL maybe we should just start with another pattern and hope *Chelle* comes back to us. I found this site and it looks easy enough. http://123crochet.blogspot.com/2006/01/small-project-tote.html
We can still do it as *Chelle* planned...all hook together and felt together and then dry together also. Let me know what ya'll think?


I will start this in about 48 hours. Want to give *chelle* time. Means starting Wednesday Oct 4, 2006.

Actually, dsabol, I was responding to acrhttcwgrl's "Let me know what ya'll think" comment. nothing to do with your post at all......

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Maybe I was wrong in the way I said some things..And I am sorry if anyone thought I was in the wrong. It was just a thought as no one has heard from the gal since she started the CAL, and I know I am on a budget and have bought the yarn(which wasn't cheap) and dont like having it just sitting, when I planned on it for a Christmas gift. I am willing to wait, but I think I am going to drop out of this CAL and do my own felting project. Ya'll have fun. Will check the pictures when they are posted.

[dsabol]

PLEASE don't drop out. I don't see any reason why you should. I see nothing wrong with suggesting that we look at other projects and wait a few days to see what happens.

She never said when we would start, and it's been over a week since anyone heard from her. No one knows what we're supposed to be doing. I hope she's ok, too. But all you did was make a suggestion. There's no crime in that.

Personally, if we don't hear anything by the end of the week, I might start my own bag to felt, and I don't see why this can't be a general "felt-along" type thing if we don't hear from her. So we're not working on the same bag, but we're still DOING A BAG and felting it. Know what I mean?

I don't know. I guess not everyone agrees. If not, I suppose we could start our own CAL and make it more of a general thing.

[MommaChelle]

Ack! Sorry everyone for my long return! I love you all ((HUGS)) and thank you so much for your patience. It never fails, as soon as you start something new a million other things come up trying to take you away from the new project you've started.

Okay, it sounds like everyone has their yarn and hooks and are ready to go! I will post the pattern tonight and will probably post the *before* picture tomorrow morning (better lighting). This bag is super easy to work up and will look just fabulous when finished ;)

I think Im going to use 4 small D-Rings for the bag handles, and 4 beads (one bead for each end of the handles next to the bag - pony beads work well), but you can just sew your handles directly onto the bag if you dont have or cant get D-Rings.

Everyone excited!!?? I know you are :) Im off to finish the pattern for you so we can get this going!

[Everyday Crochet]

Chelle,

Glad to hear from you and glad to hear that life just got busy (as it has a way of doing eh?).

Since you haven't been around I wanted to let you know that the ville is scheduled for a shutdown tonight at 11pm until 5 am Wednesday morning.

Glad your back and I'm excited to start!

[MommaChelle]

Uh oh! 11 pm what time zone? Getting my butt in gear!! ;)

[crochetprincess66]

Uh oh! 11 pm what time zone? Getting my butt in gear!! ;)


They said central time. Can't wait to start the bag!!


Kim :princess

[MommaChelle]

Because Crochetville will be down, check my blog later this evening for the pattern ~

http://www.luv2crochetblog.com

I will put up the pattern for the body of the bag so you all can get started!

[andrea2006]

What time zone is chelle in for me at this moment it is 10:53 im in eastern standard time. Ive been sitting here waiting to get the pattern as I may not get on tomorrow and wanted to have it to take with me and start.

[fuzzbugjr]

According to her blog, MommaChelle is in California. Which is the same as AZ time at the moment, which is 2 hours earlier than Central Time.

Have I confused you thoroughly???

[andrea2006]

I believe that means that she is 3 hrs behind me so it is only 8pm there and 11 here i am in ohio so i guess i wont get to start it tonight,thank you for answereing me

[Everyday Crochet]

Part of the pattern is up... Get busy! :hook

[auntbubbels]

the original post told us to order: 2 balls Main Color, 1 ball contrasting color

the pattern on the blog says to begin - Holding two strands of CC together

I know how to hold two strands together with two different skeins of yarn but how do I do that with the CC since there is only one skein :think

[Wildflwr]

I would love to join this CAL. I have patterns and lots of wool yarn but have not jumped in to actually try felting before and this seems like a good place to start :hook . I have a P hook and will get working on this tonight after work.

Janet .... I have used double from one skein before for a scarf I was working on. What I did was started rolling the end into a ball and tried to get it about half of the skein and then cut it off and used one ball and the rest of the skein for two strands held together.

[OneCraftySAHM]

Yea, I'm a little confused too. I think I might be better off working another pattern for learning. I would like to see what I am working as well...I'm a visual kinda girl.

:think

[caednkat]

Was go completly crazy and unravel the entire skein. Yep, I unwound it all across my living room so it wouldn't get tangled and then grabbed the two end and wound them together into one ball.

It was madness but it worked and I didn't have any problems with it getting tangeled up.

When she told us what yarn to buy it said the entire bag would be worked with two strands held together so I had spent some time planning how I was going to work it.

I'm starting my bag as soon as I get home this evening!:hook

[crochetprincess66]

the original post told us to order: 2 balls Main Color, 1 ball contrasting color

the pattern on the blog says to begin - Holding two strands of CC together

I know how to hold two strands together with two different skeins of yarn but how do I do that with the CC since there is only one skein :think




If you can find the start of the yarn inside the ball, use that and the one on the outside held together. That's what I did, and it is working well. Hope that helps.

Kim :princess

[caednkat]

If you can find the start of the yarn inside the ball, use that and the one on the outside held together. That's what I did, and it is working well. Hope that helps.

Kim :princess




You know that would have made more sense then stringin my whole living room full of yarn... lol

Actualy I started to just double the yarn I bought and make two bags to knock out a Christmas present. But I thought I would wait and see how badly I mess this whole felting thing up first. lol

[MommaChelle]

For the one skein of Contrasting Color, to hold two strands together, take one strand from the inside of the skein and the other strand from the outside of the skein, hold them together and work it that way - a little rough if you've not ever done it before but it gets much easier once you keep going and get the hang of it. For those who need a visual, I will post a picture today of what we're doing so far k? I dont want anyone getting discouraged, this is supposed to be fun and a great learning experience for felting :)

[Everyday Crochet]

I would definitely like a visual. I'm hafta see what I'm doing or I get confused. Heck I still get confused when I see it. :blush

[MommaChelle]

Ok, Im getting there :)

[OneCraftySAHM]

Theresa,

I am sooo with ya on that one :lol.

Chelle,

Sorry I didn't mean to sound discouraged, I'm sure the pattern is beautiful. I'm just not the best crocheter (YET :lol) and it just makes me nervous to start it without having a visual. I appreciate you posting a pic, that's so sweet! Thank you and I hope I didn't sound ungrateful. :blush

Hugs.

[auntbubbels]

Ok, I was able to pull out a glob of yarn from the middle and find the end. I am all ready to go - I am sure I will be back with more questions!!! this is going to be fun :cheer

[scc51055]

OK i must be really stupid. I cant find the pattern! i went to the blog and cant find it.....is there any way to post it here? I would like to get started but dont know on what........at least i have your wisdom on the 2 starand thing! oh where oh where has the pattern gone?

[auntbubbels]

Sherri - I sent you a PM with the pattern

[auntbubbels]

Has anyone completed the 10 rounds, I am confused on round 2 :eek

Round 2 - I did the hdc in each of the next 26 stitches - i dont have 3 stitches left as the instructions say to work the 2 hdcs. Then it says to hdc in each of the next 26 stitches - I am really missing something

:think

[MommaChelle]

The bag is worked in the round, so for round 1 you are working completely around the starting chain (first working on one side of the chain, then continuing around to the other side of the chain until you reach the end chain where you do another hdc stitch, then join it to the top of the beginning chain 2 stitch (the 2 chains that were skipped at the very beginning). I can work one up and post a picture for more details :)

[auntbubbels]

AH - thanks

[MommaChelle]

Hdc in 3rd chain from hook

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/intheround1.jpg

Hdc in each chain across to last chain, work 3 hdc in last chain

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/intheround2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/intheround3.jpg

Continuing around chain, work hdc across to last chain

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/intheround4.jpg

Work hdc in last chain, join to beginning chain 2 stitch

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/intheround5.jpg

Chain 2, work hdc in same stitch as joining, work 2 hdc in next stitch, hdc in each of the next 26 stitches, work 2 hdc in each of the next 3 stitches, hdc in each of the next 26 stitches, work 2 hdc in last stitch, join. 64 hdc's made

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/intheround6.jpg

[pinkroses]

Is there anyway to post a picture of the completed project to get an idea of the project we are making? Just wondering. pinkroses

[MommaChelle]

Because I had to rip out my progress twice and start again to get just the right size bag I was aiming for, and everyone was wanting to get started, I am posting the pattern as Im going (after making sure it's exactly what I want) - so I dont have the bag finished yet but am working as quickly as I can so I can finish it and give picture updates.

[Everyday Crochet]

I haven't started yet. I thought maybe after I was done schooling the kids I would but then I remembered we had piano lessons and I really needed to lay down for a snooze. I'll have to start when I get back from church.

[auntbubbels]

OK, I had to redo it a few times and I got the first round done!!! yeah for me :cheer

[MommaChelle]

Here's the bag before the handles (before felting) ~

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/bag1.jpg

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Ok I am back in this CAL maybe....*Chelle* is there anyway you can post the pattern here at the 'ville? I am not able to sit at the computer while I crochet, starts to bother my shoulder (torn rotator cuff) and if I have to frog it, I would like to have it in my hand.. Thanks

[MommaChelle]

Felted Crochet Bag
By Chelle Grissam

Patons Classic Wool Merino (3 1/2 oz skeins)
2 skeins Main Color (MC)
1 skein Contrasting Color (CC)
P hook

Special Stitches
Hdc Decrease: [yarn over, insert hook in next st, yarn over, pull up loop] twice, yarn over, pull through all 5 lps on hook

Bag is worked holding 2 strands together throughout

Bag Body

Holding two strands of CC together, chain 30

Rnd 1: Hdc in 3rd chain from hook (skipped 2 chains counts as first hdc stitch) and in each chain across to last chain. Work 3 hdc's in last chain. Working across opposite side of chain, hdc in each chain across to last chain. Work 1 hdc in last chain, join with a slip stitch to top of beginning chain 2. ~ 58 hdc's made

Rnd 2: Ch 2, hdc in same stitch as joining, 2 hdc's in next stitch, hdc in each of the next 26 stitches, work 2 hdc's in each of the next 3 stitches, hdc in each of the next 26 stitches, work 2 hdc's in last stitch. Join to top of beginning chain 2. ~ 64 hdc's made

Rnds 3-4: Ch 2, work hdc in each stitch around. Join. ~ 64 hdc's made

Fasten Off CC. Join two strands of MC with a slip stitch in same stitch as joining.

Rnds 5-12: Ch 2, work hdc in each stitch around. Join.

Rnd 13: Ch 2, hdc in each of the next 8 stitches, work hdc decrease, hdc in each of the next 29 stitches, work hdc decrease, hdc in each of the next 22 stitches. Join ~ 62 hdc's made

Rnds 14-16: Ch 2, work hdc in each stitch around. Join.

Rnd 17: Ch 2, hdc in each of the next 9 stitches, work hdc decrease, hdc in each of the next 30 stitches, work hdc decrease, hdc in each of the next 18 stitches. Join ~ 60 hdc's made

Rnds 18-19: Ch 2, work hdc in each stitch around. Join.

Rnd 20: Ch 2, hdc in each of the next 11 stitches, work hdc decrease, hdc in each of the next 29 stitches, work hdc decrease, hdc in each of the next 15 stitches. Join ~ 58 hdc's made

Rnds 21-22: Ch 2, work hdc in each stitch around. Join. After Rnd 22 turn work so you are working on the wrong side of the bag now.

Add 1 strand of fun fur (or eyelash) to the 2 strands of wool yarn (change to CC if the fun fur matches CC)

Rnd 23: Ch 1, sc in each stitch around. Join to first sc

Rnd 24: Ch 1, sc in same stitch as joining, sc in next 7 stitches, work sc decrease, sc in each of the next 6 stitches, work sc decrease, (sc in next 8 stitches, work sc decrease, sc in next 6 stitches, work sc decrease) twice, sc in each of the last 4 stitches. Join to first sc ~ 52 sc's made

Rnd 25: Ch 1, sc in each stitch around. Join to first sc

Fasten Off Yarn. Weave in Ends.

Handles

Coming Soon

[acrhrttcwgrl]

:cheer THANK YOU :clap THANK YOU :ty :flower Did I say thank you?

[ginamaria73]

I am on row 6 right now!! I am so psyched. :)

[auntbubbels]

I think I am doing it right!!! :cheer

[caednkat]

Never mind, I had problems on row two but the 4th time was a charm and I figured it out.

I just finished row 8 and am headed to bed. This works up really fast! I'm loving it.

I'm also loving working with wool. It feels so nice to crochet with. I hate to admit that after 12 years of crocheting I had never tried using wool. I'm hooked. lol

[MommaChelle]

Finished bag with handles ~ before felting and before sewing on the handles. I will also be adding a large felted flower and will be lining the bag, then adding magnetic snaps for closure

D-Ring's attached

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/bag2.jpg


Bag after felting (before attaching handles)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/bag3.jpg


Before felting measurements: approx. 14" x 14"
After felting measurements: approx 10 1/2" w x 10" h

I bought blue fabric to match the blue and will be lining the bag and adding the magnetic snap closure to the fabric. I think this bag turned out SO adorable and am anxious for it to dry completely :) Finished instructions will be posted tomorrow, then we will get into the felting part of this bag.

[caednkat]

Just finished row 12 and am taking a break to finish up school with the kiddos.

I have to say I adore the colors I picked for the yarn. Even DH commented on how nice it's looking. It's rare for him to even notice. lol

[ginamaria73]

Wow-that's cute..I am getting there. And hopefully I will be able to figure out how to post pictures so I can show off mine too!

[auntbubbels]

I won't be able to work on this for a few days - my nephew is getting married on Saturday and there is alot to do today and tomorrow before the wedding on Sat. I will be back to something normal on Monday, and I will continue to work on my bag!!! :cheer :cheer :cheer

[Mapleleaf Mom]

Chelle

How important is gauge? I have done the first 12 rows and my bag measures 15.5" in width and not 14 like the your sample??

I have started a second bottom with a smaller hook (N)to see if it works better . Or should I just keep working with my first bag??

Cheryl

[esta]

This is a great bag. I love this easy pattern too. I think a few of these may turn into christmas presents.

[MommaChelle]

Cheryl, as far as I know the looser the stitches the more it felts. So it may felt just as well (just may need to be in the cycle longer, I did mine for 15min. and 15min), but if you are having success with the N hook then you can certainly stick with that - I know I have a tighter crochet tension, but those with looser tensions it should work just as well? The only way to know for sure is to try a swatch (I did 20 stitches, 15 rows which equaled 9" x 9").

[dsabol]

Chelle,

Because of restrictions here at work, I can't see the pics you put in your post. I CAN open your blog and see pics, though. Can you post them in your blog with the pattern?

:)

[Mapleleaf Mom]

Chelle,

Thank you, I will keep going with the first one... I didn't like the idea of starting over!!!

What size d-rings did you use??

Cheryl

[MommaChelle]

I will have the pattern written out and updated here as well as on my website. I am going to finish up the handles and put them on the bag today as well - I think it's just about done drying.

Cheryl, I used silver size 1" D rings that I picked up at walmart on the button rack (in the fabrics area, not over in the crafting) for 78 cents per pack of 4 (cant beat that!).

[ginamaria73]

I am ready for the handle..or handles-how do we do those?

[crochetprincess66]

I just wanted to share with you all my purse so far. I used Patons SWS soy wool stripes in natural pink for the body, and Patons Classic Wool in winter white and fun fur in ivory for the contrast color. I have to admit this is the most I've spent on yarn ever! I had to buy 4 skeins of the SWS yarn, it has less in it than the Classic Wool skeins.


http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j40/crochetprincess66/HPIM0237.jpg


Kim :princess

[saraelizabeth]

that's really pretty. don't 4get to post pics after felting :)

[LadyBeBop]

Are we going to felt together when everyone gets done with their bags? Or are we felting as soon as we're complete?

Me? I'm about halfway done. :) Lots going on, working two jobs, etc. However, I have a full two day weekend (off Sunday and Monday), so I should be done with the bag by sometime Monday...if not earlier.

I should be able to post pix.

[ginamaria73]

I am all done with what has been posted so far. But now I need the handle pattern so I can finish. I was wondering-do I attach the rings & the handles before felting or after or does it matter? I also want to make a flower for mine too. Do I sew that on before felting or after??

[crochetprincess66]

I'm pretty sure we are going to felt together. I have never done it and don't know how, so I am just waiting for the rest of the pattern and the instructions on how to felt.

Kim :princess

[caednkat]

I'm finished with everything but the handles. I love the way it's looking, I'll try and post a picture tomorrow.

I didn't do the fun fur on mine, just trimmed it with the CC.

I am making up some leaves and will make a flower to decorate the bag. I'm using the leaf chain pattern here for my leaves. http://www.fablehandmadegoods.com/crochetpatterns.html

Haven't found a flower I like yet. I'm making the leaves in my CC yarn too. They look really cute.

[MommaChelle]

Handles (make 2)

With MC, holding two strands together, chain 71, sc in 2nd chain from hook and in each chain across. Fasten Off Yarn. Weave in Ends (handles are sewn on after felting)

Optional D-Ring Attachment

With CC, double stranded, whip stitch around top of bag (through each sc stitch), whip stitching d-rings evenly spaced to top of bag. Tie end of yarn with beginning of yarn to secure. Fasten Off and Weave in Ends

No D-Ring Attachment

Whip stitch as above except ignore whip stitching the d-rings

[saraelizabeth]

I was wondering if you guys could help me. I have 137 yds or 100grams of the main color, and the CC. Is that enough yarn or do I need more of each?

[MommaChelle]

The Patons Classic Wool is 223 yards/ 3.5 oz/ 100g and you need a bit more than the one skein of that size for the main color. You only need maybe half of one skein of that size for the contrasting color.

[Mapleleaf Mom]

I'm done my purse and waiting for how to felt instructions!!!

Cheryl

[kmarcene]

I am not joining this CAL but wanted to add something for those concerned about the front loading washer issues that were mentioned earlier in this thread. I have a front loader and have felted in it quite a few times and it came out nicely. I add 3 tennis balls to the machine with my piece to be felted and it comes out fine. I use a hot/cold cycle and let it run the entire course. This might not be as effective for a wearable garment because you can't monitor the process as easily, but for a bag it should work just fine. You might need to reapeat the cycle to get the desired results, but I had no problems. Good luck!!!

[crochetprincess66]

I'm done my purse and waiting for how to felt instructions!!!

Cheryl


Me too!!!

Kim :princess

[auntbubbels]

I have alot of catching up to do - :eek

[LadyBeBop]

I am not joining this CAL but wanted to add something for those concerned about the front loading washer issues that were mentioned earlier in this thread. I have a front loader and have felted in it quite a few times and it came out nicely. I add 3 tennis balls to the machine with my piece to be felted and it comes out fine. I use a hot/cold cycle and let it run the entire course. This might not be as effective for a wearable garment because you can't monitor the process as easily, but for a bag it should work just fine. You might need to reapeat the cycle to get the desired results, but I had no problems. Good luck!!!

Thanks for the hint...good word. Although mine is technically not a front loader (it's a top loader without an agitator), I was still worried.

Can't wait to start felting, although I still have to do the handles.

[auntbubbels]

I am adding stitches as I add rows - so here is my question


Rnds 5 - 12 - says ch2, work hdc in each stich around. Join

Do I join after each round or just when I finish round 12?

[caednkat]

I joined with a slip stitch after each round. Then chained 2 and started the next round.


HTH

[auntbubbels]

thanks

[MommaChelle]

Ok, how many are ready to felt?

Handle instructions were posted on here already, so if you missed them - go back to my second from last post and find them! :)

[crochetprincess66]

Ok, how many are ready to felt?

Handle instructions were posted on here already, so if you missed them - go back to my second from last post and find them! :)


ME ME ME!! :yes :yes :yes I've been waiting very patiently! When are you going to post the instructions?


Kim :princess

[Mapleleaf Mom]

I'm ready and waiting too!!!

Cheryl

[auntbubbels]

Not me, but I will catch up to everyone!!! :cheer

[LadyBeBop]

Just have to crochet the handles then whip stitch the O rings on. (But first, I have to get the O rings).

Busy weekend. I thought I was going to have Monday completely free...but as it turned out, I was on the run from early morning until late at night. I never get a day off.

I'll get the handles done tomorrow during breaks at work. But I probably won't be able to felt until Thursday. Can't wait to see how it turns out.

[auntbubbels]

I am ready!!!!

I know that I have extra stitches but I decided to leave it as is and I just did a hdc for the entire bag. I didn't want to frog again, so i will see how I like felting and then make another one if I like it:cheer :cheer

[fuzzbugjr]

:no I haven't even been able to start my bag. :( I'm hoping to get started this weekend now that I'm starting to feel a little bit better.

[Everyday Crochet]

I haven't been able to start yet either. :( Life happened and the bag got put on the back burner. I need to finish up a Poncho and hat for a gift and then I can start. I am also trying to finish up a rectangle granny ghan so that I can start my graph ghan next week.

[acrhrttcwgrl]

Not ready to felt:angry Had to rip most of it out somehow added a stitch :think Should get it finished tonight.

[scc51055]

i havent started yet....dont know if i will be able to or not...just finished a counted cross stitche sampler that i started when my daughter was 8 in third grade. i kept promising it to her for all her graduations and then when she graduated from college i told her she would get it before she gets married! and that is nov. 25th! it is done!!!!!!!!!finally after 17 years! i need to crochet...i will try to get this done no promises

[MommaChelle]

Ok, for those who are ready I guess I will go ahead and post the simplest instructions on felting your bag.

Take a pillowcase (zippered, or use a rubberband to tie the top for non zippered) or mesh bag to put your wool bag and straps into. The reason for this is so all the fuzz that comes off the yarn does not end up in your washing machine and ruin it over time.

Take a pair of adult size jeans and your pillowcase/mesh bag and put them in the washing machine. Put the water level to mini (or small), fill it with hot/cold cycle on normal cycle (heavy cycle if you have it), and put in a tablespoon of baking soda in the wash (unlike soap, you dont have to rinse the baking soda out). Let the wash fill with water.

Once it begins the agitation (wash) cycle, set your timer for 10 minutes (I use the timer on my oven). When the timer goes off, turn off your machine (for mine I just push the knob in to stop the wash) and check your bag. Stretch the bag up and out, and stretch the handles. Place them back into the bag and retie (or zip). Turn your machine knob back to the beginning of the cycle (we want to keep it on the wash cycle and not go into the spin and rinse cycle), and agitate for another 10 minutes. Check your bag - if it's not felted enough to your liking, repeat for another 10 minutes (it took my bag a total of 30 minutes).

When the felting is to your liking, squeeze most of the water out of your felted bag and handles. Place a clean towel on the floor, put your bag and handles flat on the towel, place another clean towel on top - and step on it to get more water out. Then take your bag and stuff it with plastic bags, or a box, or anything that will shape your bag well. Hang your handles over something to dry overnight.

Keep shaping your bag over the next day - it will take 2-3 days for your bag to dry completely and I just keep playing with my bag during those days shaping it making sure it's how I like it :)

When bag and handles are done drying - sew the handles to your bag. Line the bag if you'd like also (not necessary though).

Enjoy! Let me know if you have any questions!

[auntbubbels]

Oh, I can't wait to do this - I am going to start it now!!!! :cheer

UPDATE - I felted the bag and I have to say that it looks good. I realized that I had extra stitches as I went along and didn't want to frog, again, so I just kept doing hdc stitches for the entire bag. I didn't have any fun fur for the top, so I just ended it with the MC.

I stuffed it with small towels to give it shape - now all I have to do is wait for it to dry and sew on the handles

I am really excited that I accomplished this - thanks Chelle for the opportunity to do this!!!!

[Mapleleaf Mom]

I did it!!!! I felted my bag and it looks great, I even let it do a gentle spin cycle to remove extra water and it looks fabulous.

I will try to post a picture this weekend ,my husband has the camera (he's at a conference til tomorrow)

Thank you Chelle for helping us with the pattern and the felting, it definitely made this more fun as a group activity!!! I think I might be making some for Christmas gifts.

Cheryl

[caednkat]

I'm getting so excited reading everyones felting stories! We have family in town visiting until Saturday morning. As soon as I can get them out the door I'm headed for the washer! lol

My bag and handles are all done and ready to felt. Well I guess they are done, I haven't been able to find the rings anywhere so I am thinking that I will just sew the handles onto the bag without the rings. Our wal-mart is always out of everything, and I am not sure enough about what exactly I'm looking for to have success anywhere else. I'm thinking I will prefer the handles directly on the bag anyway.

I can't hardly wait for Saturday!!

[ginamaria73]

Mine's done-I am sewing on the handles now. It turned out really well. I will try to post a picture tomorrow. Thanks Chelle for the pattern! And the instruction on felting.

[Stacy25]

Can't wait to see pictures of everyone's bags! :clap

[MommaChelle]

Great! See how easy it really is to felt?!! It took me a year to try it because it seemed overwhelming to me, the whole felting process - but it really is no big deal :) Now I love felting and love the finished look of my bags!

I'm very excited to see everyones pictures! I still have to line and sew my handles to my bag lol. I think I'll do that today!

[ginamaria73]

I'm done & Ive got my handles sewn on & everything. I didnt line mine this time, thats something else that Ive never tried. Next time. I'll post a picture as soon as I can get them downloaded!

[auntbubbels]

Here is mine. I forgot to get fun fur and then never had time to get back to the yarn store. I decided to do it without it because I wasn't sure if I was going to like felting. Guess what - I did!!!

Chelle - thanks again :hug

I filled my bag up with yarn - who would of thought!!! :cheer :cheer

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d163/auntbubbels/mrfirsttotebag.jpg

[MommaChelle]

Woohoo! Great job!!

Where's everyone else's photos? ;)

I lined my bag, I just have to sew in the lining now and then sew my handles and then have my hubby bubby take pictures of it with me holding it :)

[Deb]

I've been watching and waiting to see everyone's purses! Come on ladies - show your purses!

[auntbubbels]

I went to a family function today and brought my felted bag with me - I got lots of compliments - and I was very surprised - DH keeps saying, you didn't do that!!! and mine isn't as nice as others who have posted.

My mom said, oh good, now you can make them for everyone for xmas - NOT!!!

:cheer :cheer

[fuzzbugjr]

I finally got started on my bag! I have a whole 3 rounds done. The only P hook I have is a Crystallite and I'm having a difficult time getting used to it. It's not like my trusty Boye hooks. But, I'm plugging along, slowly but surely.

[pinkroses]

Auntie b. your bag is really pretty. I liked the added touches. pinkroses

[Stacy25]

Your bag looks great!

[crochetprincess66]

Here is my purse. I love it!! :c9 What a fun new technique to learn. Hugs to you Chelle for helping us.:hug

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j40/crochetprincess66/HPIM0260.jpg


Kim :princess

[auntbubbels]

Kim your tote is beautiful - when I saw the yarn you used, I said that I would have to buy something similiar in case I wanted to do another tote.

So what do I do, I ordered solid wool yarn online yesterday - what is wrong with me!!! :think Oh well, I guess I will have to make two more totes!!!! :cheer

[ginamaria73]

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/ginamaria73/100_0806.jpg

[saraelizabeth]

I'm almost done crocheting mine, had to stop and order more yarn twice.

[tabbyj1]

I finished my purse (it'll be a gift for my SIL) and it's in the washer right now. I meant to take a 'before' pic, but guess it's too late for that! :) I must say, this is so cool. The first time I checked on it I couldn't believe how much it had shrunk already!
I"m starting a couple more purses for my nieces (SIL's girls) to coordinate. I had some cute eyelash yarn that I'm using instead of the fun fur (hope it works ok) that ties all the bags together, but the main body of each purse will be a different color. I'm excited to get these done! Thanks for starting this, Chelle!

On a side note, I couldn't get ahold of any d-rings, so I'm going to be just sewing the handles directly to the body. Any tips on how to do this? I"m not much of a seamstress.....:) Like how far down the inside edge of the purse should the ends of the handles go? Is after felting too late to add the d-rings if I do find some? Is there anything else I could do/use to make attaching the handles easier but still look nice? Thanks for any advice you can offer!
Tabby

[MommaChelle]

My bag is all finsihed and lined! Im going to be using this as my new purse :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/crochet/feltedcrochetbag1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v312/luv2crochet/crochet/feltedcrochetbag2.jpg

[MommaChelle]

Tabby, sew the handles inside the bag about 1" down. To look really professional I would make a sewn square along the inside borders of the handle, then an x inside that square from corner to corner. Make sense? Or just sew along the outside edges of the handle. Use a thread that matches your handle color, or be real fun and use a thread that matches the other color on your bag. With the felting, I think the thread will get lost in the felted yarn anyways, so not really sure it matters.

Also, yes you can sew the D-Rings on to the bag after your bag is felted. I think Im going to secure my rings down with some thread also - I didnt do the wrap with the yarn tight enough or full enough and the ring keeps sliding back and forth.

[tabbyj1]

Thanks, Chelle!
Your bag looks awesome! So professional looking--you're going to get lots of compliments on that! So did you sew the lining in by hand or can you use a machine for that? I'm thinking about adding one to mine, but not sure I'm that talented :) It's drying right now and I"m really happy with it. Thanks again for all your help!
Tabby

[MommaChelle]

I machine sewed the lining together first then hand sewed it to the bag. I took a long strip of fabric (to measurements of the bag), folded it in half and sewed the side seams. Then I folded down the top and sewed that. Then I set it inside my bag and whipstitched the very top of the fabric to the bottom part of the fuzzy (fun fur) inside.

Oh, I added the magnetic snaps to the fabric after sewing the fabric but before putting it inside the bag. I measured the centimeters between each prong of the snap, then cut my small slits into the fabric a tad closer together, then put the snaps in there, folded them out, and good to go! :)

This is my second lining ever made for a bag, Im not a seamstress either but can sew straight lines on my machine :)

[Deb]

bumping this up cuz I need to see more pictures posted.


:blush Ladies? where are your bags? :think

[caednkat]

Here is my before felting picture. My washer has been fixed and I am felting in the morning. I will post After pictures as soon as I can.:cheer

http://caednkat.wordpress.com/2006/10/24/felt-along-cal/

[Mapleleaf Mom]

I have mine done and felted, I just need to get new batteries for the camera!!Hope to post pictures tomorrow!!!!

Mandi, love your colors...great minds think alike. I am using those colours for my second purse for my SIL.

Cheryl

[cateyesmd]

AWESOME -- I'll have to come back to this and try to do myself. Reading this thread and seeing the pictures has been a lot of fun.

[auntbubbels]

Mandi - I love your color combination - I enjoyed making the tote soo much that I am making another and decided to make two for xmas gifts!!! :cheer

[saraelizabeth]

Hey, where's everyone's pictures???????

[caednkat]

I felted my bag this evening. It took two 10 minute cycles in my washer. I don't know what I was so scared of this was so easy.

I am officialy hooked! lol

Now I just need to let it dry so I can sew on the handles and the flower. I'm not going to line it, I don't really think it needs it.

Bad thing is this project for me just added to my list of gifts to make before Christmas! lol

Here is a link to my blog and pictures

http://caednkat.wordpress.com/2006/10/24/my-lovely-felted-bag/

[MommaChelle]

Looks great!!

[sherryzzz]

caednkat - love your bag! :cheer

[Everyday Crochet]

Cute bag Mandi! Love the flower. :hook

[Everyday Crochet]

I am not sure if I am doing something wrong???

I just finished row 14 and I have hardly any yarn left. :eek I can probably get about 3 more rows out of it. I am using a P hook and I have the correct number of stitches but the bag seems so big!

[Everyday Crochet]

Chelle, when I look back at your pictures with the starting chain etc. Your hook looks so much smaller. Maybe I have the wrong size? I bought a P but it is huge...

[Everyday Crochet]

I finished row 18 and now I'm out. :( I don't know what I did wrong but I hate thinking that I am going to have to frog and start over.

Anyone know what I did wrong? ???

[Everyday Crochet]

Anyone?????? I'm leaving in about 10 minutes to the town where I could purchase more yarn or a different hook if anyone knows what I'm doing wrong.

[Stacy25]

What's the number on your hook? Because, correct me if I am wrong, but I believe different companies use different letters for the numbers...like, LB may not use the same letter for, say, a 9mm hook as JoAnn's would...just a suggestion.

[MommaChelle]

Im not sure what's wrong unless you have a very very loose tension? You could try using an N hook? I think my P hook is a Boy's hook.

[Stitchinpick]

Liberty: I suspect your problem is not with you, it is with your yarn. Different brands have different amounts in them. For instance, the Patons SWS yarn only has 110 yards in a skein, while their (Patons) Classic Merino Wool yarn has 223 yards in it. Both can be used in felting...

Also, some brands put less yarn in a varigated skein.

Hang in there. Your purse will probably be just fine. What yarn are you useing?

[Everyday Crochet]

I am using the Patons Classic Merino Wool and the numbers on my P hook say 11.50 mm.

I am normally very nice and even with my tension. Never too loose and never too tight. I bought more yarn and material to line it. Hopefully it will work out. I plan to finish it tonight and felt it either tomorrow or Saturday. Big or not I'm not frogging this thing. :hook

[Everyday Crochet]

O.kay... I finished it and here are the before felting pictures. I will attach the handles with the D rings after felting. I also bought the lining and magnetic snap closure.

I wish I could have found a fun fur like yours Chelle. Is your from Yarn Bee? I saw some like it today but couldn't find it in brown. :(

So... I used Eyelash instead.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l68/EverydayCrochet/crochet005.jpg



http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l68/EverydayCrochet/crochet006.jpg

[Everyday Crochet]

Alright... I'm way to excited to wait for tomorrow for felting. I started tonight. :lol

[Everyday Crochet]

:eek I'm addicted! :eek :yes Just 10 minutes and already it has shrunk! I put it in for another 10 minutes though.

This is so much fun. I wish my whole stash was feltable. :lol

[Aussie]

Can anyone tell me what felting is....

Wendy

[MommaChelle]

Cant wait to see the after pics Theresa!! I used bernat boa yarn for my fun fur edging. I did use an eyelash yarn for my other bag I made (knit) and it turned out really pretty. The eyelash gets so much softer and even slightly fuller after washing.

Wendy, Im not very good at defining this so maybe someone else can answer :)

[Mapleleaf Mom]

Here is a picture of my purse...finally posting!! :cheer I've been using it all week. I didn't add the fuzzy yarn edge ,just used the contrasting color. I added a flap to help close the bag....it opened too easy when full of stuff!! The hanging picture has stuff in the purse the second is before I filled it...I forgot to take a before felting picture.

This is the first picture post I've done hope it works, then I will share my many other projects that I have been inspired to do since joining crochetville!!!

Cheryl

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p181/Mapleleafmom2006/brownfeltedpursehanging.jpg
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p181/Mapleleafmom2006/brownfeltedpurse.jpg

[Everyday Crochet]

Nice bag Cheryl.

My bag is just about dry and then I'll finish up with the handles. I made the 2 that were in the pattern but I'm not sure i'm going to use them. They turned out shorter than I would have liked so I may just grab some handles and use those instead. I'll get a finished picture up sometime in the coming week.

[cateyesmd]

Here is a picture of my purse...finally posting!! :cheer I've been using it all week. I didn't add the fuzzy yarn edge ,just used the contrasting color. I added a flap to help close the bag....it opened too easy when full of stuff!! The hanging picture has stuff in the purse the second is before I filled it...I forgot to take a before felting picture.

This is the first picture post I've done hope it works, then I will share my many other projects that I have been inspired to do since joining crochetville!!!

Cheryl


http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p181/Mapleleafmom2006/brownfeltedpurse.jpg


Great job! I really like the flap too.:clap

[MommaChelle]

:cheer All the bags look great! I've been using my bag too for my bible study and home group books. I changed my mind about using it as my purse because I didnt have any pockets in it - the next one will have pockets :)

SO ladies, anyone else have pictures of their bags?!!

[Berniluvscrochet]

I have been busy and didn't notice this crochet along. I have the wool already, printed out the pattern and will start tomorrow. My hubby is having minor surgery, and this will be a perfect project. I have wanted to try felting and this is such a good time to start! Thanks Chelle for your pattern. It is perfect!
Berni

[Everyday Crochet]

Wow... long time no visit. I had some computer problems and got a new computer. No matter what I tried I couldn't log in so I had to re-register under a new name.


I was Liberty before...


The picture of my bag is on my crochet blog.


Everyday Crochet (http://www.everydaycrochet.blogspot.com)