Bag Along

[wolfs1love]

ok so here we are going to do this....its a bag crochet along!

this is a chance for you to make the bag of your dreams...

i know that i cant wait!

[shelbyro]

I'm in! I have asked the admins to move the post with the bag-button over to here, so that we could have an icon to use on blogs, etc.

Obviously you don't have to use it if you don't want to, but it is there if you do want to!

I'm psyched about this, and have already started my bag!

[Donna]

Here are the buttons, made by Michelle, cleaned up by me, that Michelle would like to contribute to the bag crochet along. :thumbsup

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v138/dbelle/crochet/buttons/bagalong.gif

The above button is transparent and will look great on any background except black. If you happen to have a black or really, really dark background, here's another version:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v138/dbelle/crochet/buttons/bagalong2.gif

[Donna]

Just my two cents :2 I like the name Bag Along... cute, like tag along. Melinda, can we call this just the Bag Along instead of the Bag Lady Crochet Along? :thinking1 Bag lady kind of makes me think of frumpy things... and it would be nice if this CAL inspired some lovely and elegant bags!

[Donna]

Okay, I'm in. Well, I've been in. :lol I worked on my bag this weekend already. It's the Tri-Pocket Tote from the special crochet insert in the Spring 2004 (http://www.interweave.com/knit/interweave_knits/back_issues/SP_04.asp) issue of Interweave Knits (http://www.interweave.com/knit/interweave_knits/Default.asp). Maryse made one and she has some posts about it in her April (http://morici.typepad.com/bag_n_trash/2004/04/) blog archives. I started this bag weeks and weeks ago, and haven't touched it since. This CAL has inspired me to pick it back up! :bigsmile

[rebeccav]

donna - that is neat!! really cool bag
can i add my pennies? - i kinda liked bag lady... i thought it was funny:lol but that's my kind of humor = i'm odd that way :rollin :p

[Stephanie]

Let me know when we start. I have to decide which bag to do and get the yarn for it this week (It's my birthday week, so I get a discount at the yarn shop!).

I'm choosing a bag from the site below. I'm down to 5 want-to-dos. I want to pick something that doesn't compete with the knitted bags :knit I plan to start later this month (french market and square bottom tote), so I'm thinking shoulder bag :idea or small tote.
Crocheted Bags (http://home.inreach.com/marthac/totes.html)

My Crochet Blog (http://www.worldofcrochet.blogspot.com)

[Tiffany]

I recently acquired this beautiful cotton/rayon blend yarn from Over the Rainbow yarns on Ebay.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v154/tiffcrochets/rayoncottonpurseyarn.jpg

I would say it's bulky/chunky weight with a similar texture to Lion Brand homespun. This poor skein of yarn really, really wants to be made into a purse. It's hooked up with this pair of circle bamboo purse handles that also want to be made into a purse. Does anyone know of a pattern that would effectively combine these poor, lonely things into a beautiful purse so that I can put Michelle's awesome button on my blog?

[rebeccav]

tiff - hancock and joann have 2 patterns....
i'm gonna search right now.... wait for me :bigsmile


here's the one from joann (http://www.joann.com/content/projects/projectsDisplay.jhtml?articlePath=%2Fcontent%2Fpro jects%2Fstatic%2Fnew%2Fhoneycomb_knit_purse.jhtml&CATID=25293)

couldn't find the hancock one... but if i got it as a free pattern flyer... it should be okay to share, right? i bet it's even on rachel's site.....:wink
i'll post a pic in a sec...

[Tiffany]

Thank you Rebecca!!! :cloud9 :yay

That purse is perfect!! :) :woohoo

As far as the Hancock pattern, if you have the pattern number from the sheet, you can post that and I'll try to look for it at my Hancock store. If there's not a link somewhere, you can't post a picture of the pattern itself, even though it's free (copyright thingy). :)

I'm printing out the Joann pattern right now. :)

[rebeccav]

alright alright - can you let go of my arm, please?!

(shh, i'm trying to convince myself of an arm twisting:ohdear )


count me in!

oh, darn... i said it, didn't i......:rollin :yay2

[rebeccav]

apparently, i was more ready to join than even i knew! - hubby ran to his dad's for a sec and took the kids...
i already have the floor of my bag done!:woohoo

[Donna]

:clap Rebecca!

[Tiffany]

:clap Yay Rebecca!! :cheer

[rebeccav]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/rebeccav/crochet/sagebag.jpg

here it is so far - the color is fairly accurate. what do you think?
anyone else up for a show-and-tell???


quick question - hmmm... thinking about the finished product - i'm really wanting it to hold it's shape - and i'm thinking that after i have items in it.... it'll get weighed down and saggy (because the top is so much wider than the bottom) i guess what i mean by saggy is that i'm afraid the top will lose it's oval shape.....hmmmm???? maybe a small boning sewn into bias tape and stitched on the underneath of the lining??? probably should do that to the bottom, too?????

what do you all think?

[Stephanie]

OK ladies. Here's a link to my chosen bag (as it's copyrighted). I'll buy the materials tomorrow. It looks fun and quick to do--I'll just kindof have to guess how much yarn to get.

Summer Sling (http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/lffunt/tote.htm)

Stephanie

My Blog (http://www.worldofcrochet.blogspot.com)

[crochetgrl]

Oooh, I think I have decided to join you ladies! :woohoo Yay, my first CAL!!! Now, on to choose a pattern.... or maybe I will figure out that bag I have sitting in the back of my brain.....:bounce


I figured it out, I am going to do a mini version of my duffle bag idea to work the kinks out:pig

[rebeccav]

i saw the cutest purse at WM tonight. it was just a regular shoulder bag look with the handles 'tying' at the top..... i'll have to see if i can find something similar online.... CUTE

[liz156]

I'm in. I have this yarn thats been kicking around waiting to do something with. I also have some bamboo handles around somewhere.

No pattern for me tho! :wink I can do it myself!!

[rebeccav]

well, i'm done with the pattern part of my bag.... but it only calls for one handle, i'm doing two... so i've got that to go and i'm done.

how is everyone else's bag coming along?:fluffy

[shelbyro]

I've got mine done, but I will have to post the picture over the weekend (here and my blog)--I'm off to a meeting today :zzz

I want to post the link to the free pattern I "adapted" but I cant find it right now. It's from a site like "daryce" or something, and the pattern says courtesy of Lion Brand on it, but I can't find it on their site. I'll keep looking....

I'm gonna make another couple bags too, because I got some extra handles, and then there's all the cool links that you guys have been posting.

BTW, I am still gonna make the gallery--I promise I will have it ready (though not beautiful) by Tuesday.:camera

[DawnsRays]

Here is a website with a great little pattern for a bag for the bag along if anyone is in need of ideas :idea

www.coatsandclark.com/fun...lw1369.htm (http://www.coatsandclark.com/fun_and_free/knit_out_2003/lw1369.htm)

Hope it can help someone.
DAWN

[Stephanie]

Bought some skeins of Stone Mountain cotton/acrylic blend yesterday in a nubbly teal. Am moving right along on my summer sling. I have nearly finished one side of the bag.

I would like to make another using a beige and white, but maybe something different with some of those cool handles. We'll see. In any case, I've never made a purse before, so good for a bag-along!

Stephanie

My progress so far. The photo shows the one side folded in half (only way to scan it). If anybody can tell me how to change the size of a photo here so that it doesn't take up so much space, please let me know! http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL252/1600103/3194928/62473889.jpg

[crochetgrl]

I started my bag last night, it is a mini duffle. The ends are two circular peices (per end) that are connected to cover cd's to give the ends rigidity. The second one is almost done. It's in three colors of cotton, blue green and orange. I am not sure how I will do the closer or if I want one or two handles yet, but I have time to figure that out!:knit (we need one of these with a crochet hook--hint hint to those of you that can make them:wink :lol )

[Donna]

Stephanie, looks like you figured out how to make your photo smaller. I didn't see it before but it doesn't look big to me now. For anybody who needs the link, though, here it is: How to resize an image (http://p084.ezboard.com/fcrochetvillefrm47.showMessage?topicID=9.topic).

Bethy, what a great use for CDs!! Yeah, I have been wanting to try to make a crocheting smiley, but I'm not very good at animations, so I haven't tried yet.

My update: My bag is made of three pieces and I have the bottom and one side done. I've started on the second side.

[Tiffany]

I started my bag last night. :bounce I'm using this (http://www.michaels.com/art/online/projectsheet?pid=e02103&categoryid=) pattern from Michaels.com (it's probably also on the Lion Brand site).

I had bought two skeins of LB Wool Ease Thick & Quick on clearance a few weeks ago when I saw this pattern. I'm over halfway through after about an hour of work.

:woohoo Off to post the bag along pic on my blog. :)

[rebeccav]

tiff - the coats and clark pattern dawn posted is the other one i was looking for you a few days ago to be used with handles......
anyhow, take a peek at those.:fluffy

[Tiffany]

Excellent! Thank you Rebecca. :) I'm procrastinating when it comes to that yarn. It needs to be wound so it might find itself sitting for a while until I convince the hubby that I need a yarn winder, or I tackle it the hard way. :)

[Rachel]

Hey! I have a bag I'd like to try but it is pretty small. Does it matter about the size?
Rachel

[Tiffany]

Since beginning my bag two nights ago, I have completely frogged it :frog twice. This time I've got the gauge down but it's still a lot bigger than I wanted and way too tight of a stitch. I had to drop down from a "Q" hook as recommended to an "N" hook otherwise it's twice as wide as it's supposed to be. :bang

Enough :blah I'm going to get back to work on it. :)

[shelbyro]

woo hoo! I made a gallery (http://www.freehomepages.com/shelbyro1/Crochet/bagalong.html), now I just need to put something in it! Now, it isn't too fancy, so don't critique it too harshly!

Here's what I need, when you finish your bag[s]:

:) a photo of your bag
:) the source of your pattern (a link or book title, if you have one and can find it!)
:) your name for the crochet artist (and email or blog link, if you want it linked)

You can email this info to shelby12314472@yahoo.com (shelby12314472@yahoo.com)

[Donna]

<img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/clap.gif" /> Michelle! <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/woohoo2.gif" />

[rebeccav]

look for my email late tonight or tomorrow morning. i will get my bag finished during the movie tonight ;) :bounce

[Tiffany]

:clap Yay Rebecca! :clap I can't wait to see your purse!

I finally ironed out the kinks in my pattern and am very close to finishing. :yay It just lacks a little edge and handle sewing. I'm thinking of making a liner for it. Has anyone done that for a purse/bag before? What's the best way to go about it?

[shelbyro]

I haven't done a liner before, but I would like to for my bag also. I am guessing that you'd cut out a fabric piece that is the right size/shape, and then stitch it around the purse opening with needle and thread? Or could you use a steel hook and crochet it to the neck?

[rebeccav]

well, i line all my bags, and this is what i do:

i first cut out a bottom from fabric - don't forget to give yourself 5/8 for the seam allowance. place the piece in the bag to make sure it is correct. then i do the 'walls'. i do it all in one piece- saves time-i'm usually too excited about having a finished bag to want "details" on the interior :p cut a long length of fabric that is the right height for your bag with enough for seam allowance. then i just stitch around the base and wall. when i get close to the stitching coming together, i stop sewing and pin to make sure i have an acurate amount of length.... then stitch up the side, and then complete the base. place your new liner in your bag-pretty side showing- then, i fold over the seam allowance, and hand stitch to yarn- lots of stitches close together. ta da!

i hope that makes any amount of sense???

[Tiffany]

It does make sense. :) Thank you Rebecca! :))

[crochetgrl]

I finished my purse!!:yay2
I took some pictures, but I have to finish off the camera, develop the pics, and then scan them into the computer! It looks great! I used the "up-down" stitch, and don't need to line it, and the strap is three rows as long as I wanted the strap to be, then top and bottem rows were whip stitched together to form a rope like strap. I LOVE it! Thanks Melinda for starting this CAL!:clap

[rebeccav]

yay for you!!! sounds fantastic! can't wait for the :camera

[rebeccav]

okie dokie - here's mine (although it still needs a liner - but with the color of it, i won't use it until fall anyhow)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/rebeccav/crochet/SageBag.jpg

the color is true -
i feel i need to confess - i used a knitting knobby for the handles and closure loop :o

i will put a boning in around the bottom and top so that it will hold shape when i line it.

it is made with sport weight chenille using a G and i got the pattern off the wrapper of Lion Brand Chenille (not the thicker)
let me know what ya think
:thumbsup or:thumbsdown (i haven't decided yet)

[Tiffany]

I made a purse using that pattern for my mom and she loves it. :) I think the lining and giving the sides a little support will make all the difference. Great job! :clap

[Tiffany]

:yay I finished my purse this afternoon. :cloud9

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v154/tiffcrochets/Crochet/fuzzypurple1.jpg

And here is my purse modeling its recent yarn purchase. :p

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v154/tiffcrochets/Crochet/purplefuzzypurse1.jpg

Michelle, I will be emailing you the pic soon for the gallery. :)

[rebeccav]

cute! okay, give us details - yarn? pattern? :clap

[Tiffany]

Details, shmetails. :p I was too excited to post the pictures that I conveniently left out the important info. :rollin

I used Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick (a bear to weave in :irked ) in purple... looking for label... "Plum" and Lion Brand Fun Fur prints in a color that coordinates. :) (I threw away the label. :oops ). I found the Thick & Quick in the clearance rack at my Joann Etc. store for $2.50.

I used this (http://www.michaels.com/art/online/projectsheet?pid=e02103&categoryid=) pattern. Instead of doing one chain for the strap, I made two chains and twisted them to make it a little thicker.

[antara]

Tiff, that's adorable!

[DawnsRays]

Great job on the purse! Got a question--how do you put in "boning"?
I made the same purse about a month ago but never used it because as you can attest to, it is rather floppy. Any tips about this purse or hints you can give as to keeping it a little stiffer would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks~ DAWN

[rebeccav]

okay - this is an easy way:

you choose your boning - your store will have different stiffness' to choose from - if your bag will be lined, you can use regular biased tape, but your boning in that, and stititch it to the top and/or bottom of the lining - if you aren't lining - you can slip it into a matching double folded bias tape and then stitch that on.....

make sense?:fluffy

[DawnsRays]

Thanks for the info. That will be a great help!! :clap

~DAWN

[Pomegranate]

I came back from vacation and found out I was bag-alonging and didn't even know it!

I just finished a purse in Brown Sheep Lamb's pride. It's basically a big rectangle with handles built in that I folded in half and stitched together. The crocheting is done but I still have to felt it and find the button I wanted to use for the tab closure. It's huge and floppy now so I hope it shrinks a lot.

I'll be sure to send a photo to Michelle when I'm done.

[luvtocraft]

I'm in!!

[shelbyro]

Awesome! I am so glad so many people are "Bagging it!"

Here's my first bag--http://img24.exs.cx/img24/1684/P8050012.jpg

It's from generic white with grey flecks cotton from walmart, and the pattern is a freebie which I can't re-find. :irked It's a little floppy, and a little too short on the walls (I was running out of yarn), so I think it will be perfect for a "project" bag rather than a purse. It's about 10" across and 8" tall.

I'm making another bag now (the summer sling) out of fall yarns, so I guess it will be a fall sling!

[shelbyro]

Ok, I updated the bag along gallery, but for some reason the pictures aren't showing up in it. I will try to fix it on Monday (I don't see anything wrong with the coding now), but I wanted to let everybody know I knew they were missing (get it?) :huh

Anyhoo, keep sending your info to me, and I will add it!!

shelby12314472@yahoo.com (shelby12314472@yahoo.com)

[rebeccav]

i'm glad you posted michelle - because i was just about to tell you...... :frog

[Stephanie]

Despite some major wrist pain, I completed one of 3 parts of my bag today. :bow Still have the other side and the handle to do.

Michelle, I couldn't see any of the photos in the gallery. Did they perhaps get moved? (and now have a different 'address')?

Happy crocheting all!
Stephanie

[KnottyMouse]

<img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/wave.gif" />Hi! I haven't been over here in a while (shame,shame I know...) and I just saw the bag-along button on someones site and got all excited-- Can I still join? I see that there are so many people done already and I am hoping I'm not too late!
- Mouse
<a href="http://www.knottymouse.blogspot.com" target="_new">Knotty Mouse Blog</a>

[shelbyro]

Hi Mouse!

Please do join us!:bounce

[crochetcrazy]

Hi there,

I am ready to join up...still room? I want to make a bag and felt it so I've been reading up in the felting area,too.

Is that cool? And I'll probably be making up my own pattern cause I have an idea for the shape but may buy handles.

Let me know, ok?
Thanks!

[shelbyro]

yes, yes, yes, join us! Felted bags are fine, as are added handles.

:clap

[kariholtz]

See... I bagged along and didn't even know I was gonna! I sat down this weekend and this is what came of it.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v218/shadydowns/CROCHET%20PROJECTS/1710b04c.jpg

I still have to put in a lining, it's gonna be a small project tote.
:coffee

[shelbyro]

looks great! send me the picture and info, and I will (eventually:p ) put it in the gallery!

[crochetcrazy]

Ok....now to the yarn shop!!!:clap

Yeah!:bounce

[luvtocraft]

I finally started my bag. It is just something I am making up as I go along. I estimate that I am about 1/3 done. I will be sure to post a picture when I am done.

[luvtocraft]

It's done! Here it is, inside and out. I added a lining and used velcro for a closure. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v365/luvtocraft/bag1.jpghttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v365/luvtocraft/bag2.jpg

[pfirsch]

<blockquote><strong><em>Quote:</em></strong><hr>the pattern is a freebie which I can't re-find. <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/irked.gif" /><hr></blockquote>
I know I'm not apart of the group, but I can be of some help, or so I hope...

The pattern for shelbyro's bag can be found under <a href="http://www.darice.com/files/CreativeCrafts/Crocheted%20Bags.pdf" target="_new">Darice Crocheted Bags</a>. The actual page on the site seems to be gone.

[MommaChelle]

Everyones bags are looking great!!

[crochetlady]

Hi everybody,
I had not been here for awhile because I was called in to substitute for a teacher in my kids school! I find that you have been having tons of fun doing the "bag-along" . I wish to join you all as soon as I have picked out a pattern to do (easier said than done lol).

Hugs
Vims
PS : what is Boning? I think I saw it being mentioned in Rebecca's post.:bounce

[rebeccav]

hmmm, how do you explain boning.....

you know how bustier (oh my, did i spell that right?) -- lingerie--- is sometimes made with a long straight piece of plastic sewn in vertically? that's boning.
kinda like (KINDA) the underwire in a bra - but it is straight (not in the U shape) - it is made from plastic, pretty rigid, but still flexible... you can actually buy it in different flex - a little or hardly any......
does that make any sense at all?:thinking1

[crochetlady]

Thanks Rebecca. I got what it means. I don't know what the locals here call it though :) Will try to look around :)

Hugs
Vims

[shelbyro]

pfirsch Thanks for finding that Darice link for me! I will update the <a href="http://www.freehomepages.com/shelbyro1/Crochet/bagalong.html " target="_new">Bagalong Gallery</a>!

I have been working on the summer sling bag, and here is the picture of the pieces, before I joined them last night:<img border=0 src="http://img39.exs.cx/img39/9391/sling.jpg" />

Once joined, I am not sure I am too crazy about this bag--the handle's too long, and the bag is smaller than I thought it would be, but I will chalk it up to experience and possibly try another pattern. So far I am not that keen on either of my bags. <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/crying.gif" />

I will post a finished pix on the gallery soon.

[shelbyro]

Rebecca, could you re-send the picture of your sage bag to me shelby12314472@yahoo.com? I lost it--<img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/crying.gif" />

thanks!

[rebeccav]

i sent it :))

[becjac67]

I FINALLY got my bag done today!!
I had made the whole thing weeks ago and have been too chicken to felt the darn thing and finally got around to it now that the kiddos are back in school and I love it. Marlo has great patterns and I can't wait to try another!

<img border=0 src="http://www.hazelnutlatte.com/pictures/feltedbag082604a.jpg" />

[luvtocraft]

Michelle,
Those colors are wonderful! I can't wait to see the finished bag!

[luvtocraft]

Becky,
Your bag is awesome! I really like the colors you used. Great job! :clap

[Deb]

Becky, Your bag is gorgeous. What yarn did you use?

I really want to try felting. I am so chicken though... <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/frog1.gif" /> (yes, I know it's a frog... but there is no chicken in the smiley bin. haha)

[Stephanie]

Everybody's bags are looking great! I'm also working on the Summer Sling, but took the week off crocheting to give my wrist time to recover. Bought my lining and thread, so I'm set with that. Hopefully will get this worked on before weekend. I had hoped to finish it before going to the MN State Fair, but alas, that is probably not the case. <sigh>

Stephanie
Whose car is in the shop.

[becjac67]

Thanks! I just used bargain bin wool from my LYS that was 50% off. There wasn't even a label on it other than it said 100% wool LOL.

I was a big chicken too and that's why my bag sat done and ready to be felted for like 3 or 4 weeks before I ever got around to trying it and it took a while but now I don't even know what I was afraid of and can't wait to do more.

[Deb]

:)) I started working on a purse today. I'm using this fuzzy purse (http://www.michaels.com/art/online/projectsheet?pid=e02103&categoryid=29) pattern; and working it with wool ease and cha cha yarn. It's going together really fast. :knit

[yes.. i've given in and started yet another project. seems i'll do anything to avoid the 63 squares!]

[Donna]

seems i'll do anything to avoid the 63 squares!LOL, Deb! :rollin

[rebeccav]

i love that bag choice deb.

hey michelle - i was at old navy yesterday and there were tons of purses in that shape! you're stylin'!

[Tiffany]

I made that bag, Deb! I'm using right now as my main purse until I make another one. I've gotten lots of complements on it. :)

[becjac67]

I posted this bag in the current projects section too but I figured I'd add it to the bag along as my second completed bag. It's out of the new Interweave Knits crochet magazine and uses Lionbrand Colorwaves yarn in the color Lava. I love the shape of it. It's currently unlined but I think I want to line this one but Im not really sure how to go about it with this strange shape.

<img border=0 src="http://www.hazelnutlatte.com/pictures/colorwavepurse090104a.jpg" />

[crochetlady]

Oh how lovely Becky! I really miss being in the US esp when I see these lovely yarns!

Hugs
Vims:clap

[woolandflax]

I promise I can move fast!! :woohoo
you have all posted some wonderful patterns so the hard part might be choosing just one!!:wow

[Tiffany]

No, you're not too late! :) Join us! :cheer

[Pomegranate]

Well I finally got around to fulling (felting) the bag I made on my vacation last month. I just sent the JPG files to Michelle for the bagalong page.
In the meantime, I finished another bag that is waiting to be fulled too. (I guess it's just a little hard to get motivated to sitting in a hot laundry room in the summer.)

Whee!
Bettina :-)

[shelbyro]

Bettina--I got your email, and will post the pictures on Tuesday (when I come back to work, and am chained to my computer).

Thanks!

[Pomegranate]

Thanks Michelle! (At least it will be a short work week! ;->)

[rebeccav]

i finished my second bag ( and my first felting! )

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/rebeccav/crochet/IM000432.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/rebeccav/crochet/IM000434.jpg
close up of the felting effect

there was no pattern, i just sc the whole thing.
it is Landscapes, Autumn Trails.

[Tiffany]

Great job, Rebecca! :clap Did you use two balls of the Incredible? I have two balls that I want to do a purse out of two, so I'm curious. :idea

[rebeccav]

tiff, it's actually landscapes - LB, i think. and i ended up using 3 full balls OUCH! those puppies are $7 a piece! thank goodness for 40%off coupons :frog

[Tiffany]

Can you tell I have Incredible on the brain?? :D I just bought some for my stepmom's Christmas present. I have 2 of the Landscapes in Rose Garden sitting around somewhere too.

[shelbyro]

I love that purse, Rebecca--the yarn colors are gorgeous! I will add it to the gallery as soon as I can--I am kinda swamped at work right now. Great job, though! <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/clap.gif" />

[Pomegranate]

Hey Rebecca,
I just got some of that exact color of landscapes! I love it! I could just eat it up with a spoon. It looks great as a bag!

How much did it shrink when fulled? 10%? 40% I can't quite get a sense of scale from the photo.

:-) Bettina

[rebeccav]

bettina - well, i was so excited to get it done, i forgot to take before pictures :oops
my guess would be 30-40%
it shrank a lot. i was surprised. but, my washing machine is set to 150 degrees because of my washing fleece for spinning, so it may not shrink that much with cooler water???
pfirsch also used this yarn for a bag. it's under fulling felting - called without 100% wool!

[shelbyro]

Here's the finished product of the bag pieces in photos above:

<img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v449/shelbyro/purse.jpg" />

I sewed the daisies on it to give it some "pizzazz" and put velcro closures on the top edge.

[rebeccav]

very cute!!! LOVE LOVE the daisy!:)h

[Pomegranate]

Thanks Rebecca,
I'm gald it shrinks a lot because I used mine to make a HUGE bucket hat. Right now it covers my whole head. ;-> (I will definitely remember to make a before pic.) After I was done I worried it wouldnt' shrink enough to fit me.

I'm waiting until the weather cools off a bit before I full the hat and the second bag-along bag I made. By that time, I may even have another piece ready to felt.

Michelle, that's a CUTE bag! I like the half circle shape. How'd you do it?

[shelbyro]

Thanks guys! <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/hug.gif" />

The pattern is <a href="http://www.darice.com/files/CreativeCrafts/Crocheted Bags.pdf" target="_new">here</a>.

[Pomegranate]

Hi Michelle,
I sent you a photo of my bag for the bag-along a few weeks ago, but it's still not on the gallery page. Do I need to resend it?

:-) Bettina

[shelbyro]

I got it Bettina, I'm so sorry I haven't added it yet. I have been soooooooooooo busy at work, and then school, and, well, you know. :faint

I will get it on today. :fc

[Pomegranate]

Thanks Michelle! I see it on the gallery page now! :-D

I totally understand about being busy. I'm swamped this time of year. I just thought I'd sent a damaged file or something.

:-D Bettina

[RitziMitzi]

My Oh, My....

I need to stop before I go crazy - but I'm going to join this, too - that is, if you'll have me. <img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/fin.gif" /> I've recently made two bags - one from Lion Chenille and another with the fulling process....but the urge has struck again.

I'd like to do the "Jaunty Shells" from the American School of Needlework "Trendsetting Totes".

I've chosen RH yarn - Farmland and Ranch Red (mc)....should be pretty for fall...

Mitzi
<a href="http://www.wickedstitch.blogspot.com" target="_new">The Wicked Stitch</a>

[vhanna26]

Hello,

I'm a new bagger too.:)

I just started the Country Market Felted bag from
Marlo's Crochet Corner (http://www.marloscrochetcorner.com/patterns%20for%20sale.html), The bottom is complete, and I'm working on the sides. The Lion Brand Lanscapes is nice. Hope it felts well.

Cordially,

Vera

Vera's Crafty Blog (http://vhanna26.typepad,com)

[shelbyro]

Absolutely join us! The more the merrier :D!

Send me ( shelby12314472@yahoo.com (shelby12314472@yahoo.com)) a picture of your completed bag when you get done, and I will post it in our gallery.

Thanks!

[adultramblings]

I'm trying to get active again both on crochetville & my blog, so can I join too? I just love bags. I'm addicted to them, even if I wasn't the one that made it. Last month I got 3 bags at an auction, two were crocheted & one was macramed :) . I'm trying to design a bag based on one of the purses I got at the auction, but bigger.

[Julie]

<blockquote><strong><em>Quote:</em></strong><hr> I finished my purse. It was fun to crochet and felt it, and I love it. I've even brought more yarn to make another.

http://vhanna26.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/cfeltedbag2_2.jpg

I'm thinking about designing my own purse too.

Vera Hannaford
Vera's Crafty Blog
http://vhanna26.typepad.com
<hr></blockquote>


<blockquote><strong><em>They said: </em></strong><hr>
bkellya said: I love your purse! I have a pattern picked out to try and just need to get some wool for it, I look forward to giving felting a try! Congrats on the finish!

<hr>rebeccav said: that is really fabulous, vera!!! <img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/rowofhearts.gif" />


is that one of marlo's patterns? <img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/cheer.gif" />
<hr>
</blockquote>

[Julie]

And I say the bag is beautiful too! I love it, and I already tried to find some Landscapes once this weekend after seeing it on your blog. Great job!! <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/clap.gif" />

[vhanna26]

Julie, thanks for moving my post to the correct place.

I did get the pattern from Marlo's site. It is the Country Market Felted Bag (http://www.marloscrochetcorner.com/patterns%20for%20sale.html).

It was easy to crochet, and I pulled an all nighter to crochet and felt it, but it was worth it, and I plan to make another one soon. I have three sisters, and I think that'll make great Christmas presents.

[Julie]

It will, Vera, perfect Christmas gifts. And it is just the color I want, I think. <img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/veryhappy.gif" />

[Donna]

I adore your bag, Vera! :clap You did beautiful work and the colors are perfect. :)h

[rebeccav]

this is done in tunisian basic stitch with the handles knitted with the assistance of a knitty knobby :D!
it's done with LB chunky usa in pink, and pink eyelash with hotpink fun fur held together around the edge

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/rebeccav/crochet/Friday019.jpg

psst- there are only 2 handles, it's leaning against a mirror:oops

[shelbyro]

Very cute! I love the sparkly fur around the top. Is it for a gift?

[rebeccav]

yes, it was a gift... my son's afternoon sitter. kinda a weird story, my kids' schools are about 25 minutes apart, instead of making him wait at his school for me for that long, he goes home with a friend of mine that has twin girls in his grade... she is a single mom-attorney, and so has a nanny, it was for her. she loved it so much went and bought herself a pink pleather jacket that evening to match :clap

[woolandflax]

But I didn't. Here's one of the bags I've done lately. I still need to line it but I was in a hurry to give it to my daughter for her birthday. It's my own design, still have to write down the pattern though.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v232/chigaboom/Crochet%20and%20Knitting%20Projects/Img020.jpg

~Rebecca

[rebeccav]

that is really cute, rebecca :cloud9
i love the blue and white together!!! -- very chic for the winter:brrr

[woolandflax]

Thanks! lol, the color is a little off in the picture, it's not really blue, it's a pretty lavender. My baby adores anything purple so the majority of her clothes and stuff are in shades of it.


~Rebecca

[luvtocraft]

Rebecca,
That bag is SO cute!!! :yay2

[Chie]

I love seeing all the bags! :)h

I have been in a slump. :help It seems like I just can't finish any projects. :th

:kick to myself, and I am joining this CAL. :)) I've already picked out a pattern, which is one of Japanese patterns, and I crocheted a few rows. I'll post a progress pics later.

[RitziMitzi]

It's in the BAG!!! My first "official" bag for the Bag Along...
<img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/wickedstitch/bagalong.jpg" />
I used the Jaunty Shells pattern from LA Trendsetting Totes...size G hook...RH Yarn - Farmland and Ranch Red...

Are there more in the works? We shall see...

<img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/sheep.gif" /><a href="http://www.wickedstitch.blogspot.com" target="_new">Mitzi</a>

[rebeccav]

mitzi!!! that is SOOO cute! :)h i'd love to know the size of that - i really like the style, but it looks like it might be bigger than what i like to carry --- i just may have to search out this booklet :sherlock

[MiCountess]

Mitzi - what a beautiful bag. :yay2 Can you find that pattern in a store? I may just have to join this. Michelle

[RitziMitzi]

Oh Gosh!<img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/rowofhearts.gif" />I'm filled with tickles! Thanks for all the wonderful comments. This bag is super easy and fun - lots of color potential. I got the pattern from a Leisure Arts book - I think it was Hobby Lobby during one of their 1/2 instructional books sales. I think they still carry them, too. It's not really that old - at least not to me. The pattern gauge says 12 1/2" tall without the handles and 10 1/2" wide. However GAUGE and I are not on speaking terms (we were never friends anyways) and mine isn't quite 10" wide and it's only 9" tall not including the straps. The strap adds about another 13 1/2" to the length. Now if you fill it full of all the junk we "need" to carry, I imagine it would stretch - but I made this very tightly as to avoid that...i hope i hope i hope....

The talented crocheter could probably even rig up some kind of closure - but I don't mind it gaping open that much.

<img border=0 src="http://img28.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/wave.gif" /><a href="http://www.wickedstitch.blogspot.com" target="_new">Mitzi</a>

[RitziMitzi]

I made a plastic bag keeper - does it count? I mean, it's a bag, and it holds bags...well - I won't be devastated if it doesn't - but here it is anyways!

<img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v480/wickedstitch/bagkeeper.jpg" />

I used Sugar 'n Cream yarn - Sage Green and Countryside Ombre, modified the pattern from Bernat's Daisy Days book and attached a flower from <a href="http://patbythehook.blogdrive.com/archive/31.html" target="_new">Dot</a>.

Now to go and stuff it and hang it somewhere!!!

<img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/turkey.gif" /><a href="http://www.wickedstitch.blogspot.com" target="_new">Mitzi</a>

[pidot]

I had made a lot of bags and still be making more of it, can i still join here? ladies, I enjoyed viewing all the bags here.

Fe

[woolandflax]

okay, I love making purses!! I have two in progress and now I'm gonna add another!! This one (http://crochet.about.com/library/bl_1940bag2.htm), made in Aunt Lydia's denim thread in pink with bamboo handles with a dark pink silk rose attached. I love the styles from the 30's & 40's and am trying to find as many as I can.

~Rebecca

[rebeccav]

rebecca, i LOVE that pattern - i have about 10 of those lydia yarns....... (got them for 19cents on clearance at HL a while back) i think i'd like to join you in making this one :clap :bounce

[woolandflax]

Yeah!! What color are you making your's in? This will be my second bag out of that yarn and I really love it, gets softer and softer with every wash. I actually made my first one while sitting in a small fishing boat. Hubby fished and I crocheted and we were both happy!!:hee

I'm going to make mine to go with my valentine's ensemble.

~REbecca

[woolandflax]

photos are on my blog!!

Wool & Flax (http://woolandflax.blogspot.com/)

~Rebecca

[gramhouse]

Becky, where did you ever get the pattern for that beautiful purse you made? It is georgous! Thanks, Pat:hi

[woolandflax]

gramhouse, were you talking to me? If so, thanks! and it is my own design. I'm working on a collection of bag designs for publication.

~Rebecca

[pidot]

here's my newly finished bag. it is in chocolate brown with a white button, and white flower on the right side of it.

here it is: img.photobucket.com/album...lap2.jpg"> (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v226/fecanas/crocheted%20items/drawstringbagwithflap2.jpg)

img.photobucket.com/album...lap1.jpg"> (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v226/fecanas/crocheted%20items/drawstringbagwithflap1.jpg)

:heart ,
Fe

[rebeccav]

that's really cute!!!:heart
i love brown - one of my staple colors :)h

[pidot]

Thanks Rebecca!

:heart ,
FE

my album (http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/c_mafe/album?.dir=7bf5&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/c_mafe/my_photos)

[CandyCaneGirl12]

So we can make any bag we want?

[woolandflax]

Cute bag Fe. I like the little flower detail.





Rebeccav, I just finished the front of that vintage bag last nite!!! I stopped when it was a 8"x12" rectangle. Oh and I used a double strand of the Aunt Lydia's denim.

~REbecca

[rebeccav]

ooooooooo, didn't you say you were making it pink???? have i lost my mind? i have a ball of lydia's in pink, green, denim, navy, tan, khaki...... i keep buying it with no specific projects... i just like it. let me know how many it ends up using. i'm anxious to make one of those bags, too!


i bet it looks lovely! is it a nice tight bag so far or will it still need to be lined????? it seems tight from the pattern, but you never know how things really turn out :loco

[woolandflax]

well since I used an I hook, it's tight but not so stiff that it doesn't need to be lined. I'm gonna make one of my plastic canvas frames and then line that inside and out and stitch the lining to the bag along with the handles. So far, using double strands, the front did not even make a dent in the first two balls. I bet I will get the whole purse out of these two and have some left over. Which is really, really good cause I want to make this hathttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v232/chigaboom/Graphics%20and%20Buttons/vintagehat.bmp to coordinate!!!! :hee (just NOT with that tassel!! I mean what were they thinkin???:loco )

~Rebecca

[pidot]

Here's the finished red variegated bag in thread for my cousin:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v226/fecanas/crocheted%20items/takealongtoteforclaire.jpg
I've done matching scrunchie and celphone pouch for it. the celphone pouch is my own design.

The bag is the take along tote (http://coatsandclark.com/fun_and_free/crochet_thread/lc1240.htm) pattern at coatsandclark.com, I just added a few rows to it, since i am using a smaller size thread and hook and then also added a flap, and button to it.

:heart ,
Fe

[rebeccav]

wow, fe! that looks awesome!!!

:clap :bounce :cheer2

[Donna]

So we can make any bag we want? Yep, any bag you want. :))

[xantha]

Totally late, but I finished a bag the other day after I got so frustrated trying to learn how to purl (shh, I'm just trying knitting out):

<img border=0 src="http://www.xantha.org/gallery/albums/craft/DSC_0987.sized.jpg" />

The yarn is LB fisherman's wool that I KA dyed. I worked the bag in hdc and felted it. It's cute, but not at all practical. I love the way it turned out, though. <img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/artist.gif" />

Loving everyone's bags! <img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/rowofhearts.gif" />

-jess

[Frangipani]

Can't believe I've been here so long and never thought to join any crochet alongs. I'd love to join if you'll have me!!!:D!

Time to get started on something!!! YAY!!!!
Bec

BTW...the "bag along" button, should we be linking it to anywhere in particular? :?

[wildyogalady]

Totally new to all this (except crochet and knit, of course~)

I'm into bags right now and would like to join you all. Hard part: which bag to make first!

Carolyn B

[RitziMitzi]

Awesome little bag, Jess! The colors are fantastic!

<img border=0 src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/crochetville/snow.gif" /><a href="http://www.wickedstitch.blogspot.com" target="_new">Mitzi</a> (who is NOT enjoying the falling snow!)

[Frangipani]

I posted this in Show and tell but here is my first contrubution to the Bag-along! I used a Lion Brand pattern and chose to line the inside with fabric. Enjoy!! Bec

img.photobucket.com/album...G_4345.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v299/frangipani16/IMG_4345.jpg)

img.photobucket.com/album...G_4356.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v299/frangipani16/IMG_4356.jpg)

[nwbondlady]

Hi,
Your bag is just beautiful...:clap ..
Did you use a pattern or make it up?
I love the colors and the floral lining. What a nice job!! :cheer2

Fran
nwbondlady

[Frangipani]

Thanks! I went to www.lionbrand.com and doanloaded the crochet pattern for the "Valentines Striped Bag". Sorry I can't link it for you as my internet is playing up and I can't do much at the moment. Grr!

Bec

[Cordelia]

CAL are on going correct? No start or end date? Please help a sister out!!!!
Sorry to be a dork....

thanks for any info!:D

[Frangipani]

Yeah Cordelia,
They're ongoing. I guess there just haven't been too many "bag-a-long" people making bags of late. Geez! The last one was me in March!!!
:eek
Bec

[nataleeza]

BAG ALONG BAG ALONG!!

I was reading this thread last night and got really excited.

I knew I wanted to join, but couldn't decide which bag to make (so many bags, so little time!).

I had an idea for one just before I fell asleep, and whipped up a design for it on my lunch break! I don't have anything to show for it yet (I'm still at work) but I just wanted to let everyone know.

I'll be buying the wool after work. I'm so excited, I'm pretty sure I won't take long to post something to look at!

[nataleeza]

Ok, my blog's been waiting for something neat to kick it off, and the Bag Along is it! Check out where I'm at with my design at my blog - HookStars (http://hookstars.blogdrive.com/archive/1.html)

[Villanelle]

*ooos and ahs at everything* Can I join in? I found this bag last night while I was looking for glove patterns (go figure): http://www.marloscrochetcorner.com/Plastic%20Bag%20tote.html I think its the work of someone on here but for the life of me cant remember who. I may start attempting it tonight after work. I have enough bags floating around my room to do it!

[magdiego]

*ooos and ahs at everything* Can I join in? I found this bag last night while I was looking for glove patterns (go figure): http://www.marloscrochetcorner.com/Plastic%20Bag%20tote.html I think its the work of someone on here but for the life of me cant remember who. I may start attempting it tonight after work. I have enough bags floating around my room to do it!

I don't know who posted that plastic-bag bag, but I love it! We're going to be camping at the beach next week, and I've been worried about bringing a crochet project along because of the sand factor, but problem solved! I just need to find enough plastic bags...

[jpr54_]

i am almost to point of felting bag-
i am using patons pattern book knit and crochet felting- 500210DD
the wool i am using is brown sheep lambs pride-
i had asked question on felt thread-i decided to not add more rows and just follow pattern as is-the drawstrink bag is small-
for my next bag i will make a bigger one-i still have 4 skeins of lambs pride left-
joanne

[Villanelle]

The bag has one row done! I started it lastnight thinking I could get a few rows done before bed but never managed it. It's pretty hard on my wrists tugging the plastic through.
Good luck on your plasticbag if you decide to make one magdiego!

[nataleeza]

Well, I only have a couple of rounds left on my bag before I felt it. It's looking just how I wanted it to as well. You can all check it out here (http://hookstars.blogdrive.com/archive/2.html) if you want.

I'm excited to see everyone else's creations too!

[Cordelia]

WOW Natalie its looking great! I made a handbag yesterday but want something special for the bag along......so still deciding! lol...I love black and red....Cant wait to see the finished product!:clap

[Suzee]

When I first read this, I got excited that someone else wanted to crochet with plastic bags. :clap However, that is not what was meant and I'm looking at my cut up plastic bags and lonely crochet hook, now. What if I make a bag from bags? :think :hook

[jpr54_]

My son has graciously photographed and lightly photoshopped a picture of the unfelted bag. Handles are drapped over bag.

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b116/joannepr/SmallUnFeltedBag.jpg

[nataleeza]

lookin' good, jpr54_! :cheer
Can't wait to see the finished result!

I started felting my bag the other night. I've never hand felted something this big, so I guess it's going to take a couple of sessions!

Hopefully will have updates by the end of the week.

[nataleeza]

Well, I have posted pre-felted pics of my bag on my blog (http://hookstars.blogdrive.com/archive/6.html) now (I actually have finished the felting but due to "technical difficulties", no pictures of the FO).
And for your extra viewing pleasure, I have also whipped up AJ's wirstbag, but a felted version. No before pics I'm afraid, because I needed to make it in 2 evenings. That mean one for crocheting and the other for felting... No time to take any in progress pictures

[sleevelessinsu]

Can I join? I finished a little backpack for a friend's birthday last week and now I'm working on a bag to submit to Crochetme and a bag for my daughter.


Olivia's pack - http://sleevelessinsu.blogspot.com/2005/06/olivias-backpack.html

[Cordelia]

Anytime is a good time to join sleevelessinsu!

Okay sooooo I finally started my bag.... Im winging it....no pattern. I couldnt find anything that "spoke" to me....

I do have the bottom done and began the sides. Im working it in rounds. I dont think I will be using premade handles....I gotta wait and see where this thing wants to go I guess.

I am using autumn-y colors ( browns, oranges, and greens)... I think I will have to line it so diggin thru my fabric stash tomorrow, or rather today , later!
Hope to post pics of finished project soon!:eek

[Cordelia]

I'm done.....This is Gaia....my experimental bag!

Was fun!

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y146/Craftycritter/fullpurse001.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y146/Craftycritter/bottomofpurse001.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y146/Craftycritter/sidepurse001.jpg

I am going to line it. I know its funky but I love it! I used all types of yarn and threads. I hope you all like it as much as I do! If not thats okay too, I still heart it! :manyheart

Thanx for looking!:hook

[Mel2nsluvsCrochet]

Sheesh, it looks like I caught the tail-end again!! I just got the bag along button on my blog and here it turns out that it was started like way back when....lol. Oh well, I am going to make a bag no matter what on top of the squares, the dish towel topper exchange of another group I belong to....all this and trying to keep up on my blog, C'ville, my daughter, cats, and fish. Did I forget something??? Oh yeah, my DH! LOL

Melannie

[Veronika]

I´m crocheting a little bag (might end up being a backpack.. not sure yet). So .. may I join you guys?!?!
<3

[Cordelia]

Jump on in Veronika!!! :cheer

[Veronika]

thank you Cordelia :D
yours is very pretty!!

[sleevelessinsu]

Thanks Craftycritter! Gaia is beautiful! Wow. I love it. I do a lot of free form crochet, it's fun, isn't it?

I'm working on a couple bags, one shaped like a lady bug for my daughter and one for Looby Lu's July Month of Softies, the theme is sock monkeys. I'll post pics as soon as they're done. :)

[sleevelessinsu]

Oh and welcome Melannie & Veronika. I just started with it too. :hook

[Cordelia]

Thanx Heather and Veronika! I enjoyed freeform so much. No rules to follow , you know? Just go with the flow!

I can't wait to see what you guys make!!! :hook

[sleevelessinsu]

I forgot, I did make a little bag for a hostess gift for a friend who invited me to dinner over the weekend. You can see it on her blog here: (Click it for a close-up and there's a pic of me too if you scroll down)

http://neena.typepad.com/my_weblog/2005/07/hostess_with_th.html

[rebeccav]

heather!! i can't believe you know margene and neena!!! i've been reading their blogs for a while now. how neat :manyheart

[Stephanie]

Don't worry about starting late. I'm still only halfway done with my bag from the bag-a-long. It's one of those projects I'm going to jump on as soon as this darn afghan is finished!

[sleevelessinsu]

I just met them Rebecca! Neena and I live the same town, and Margene lives about 4 hours drive north of us. :)

[Mel2nsluvsCrochet]

Well, Ladies and Dude, at 1:45 am MST:tired I have completed my first bag-along project. But, alas! I do not have a pic of it yet to post for your viewing pleasure. I had to frog it a couple of times on Round 23 because it was so late and I was misreading the pattern. But it is complete...woo hoo! Now, I must crawl into bed. :out

[sleevelessinsu]

Congrats, can't wait to see the pics! :) I need to take some pics of mine too.

[naidascrochet]

Hi there, I cant remember posting here that I wanted to crochet along too....but I have my purse finished here
http://yarnchick.blogspot.com/2005/09/bag-long.html
thank you :hook
everyones bags are so cute...:cheer
naida

[pidot]

I've just finished this last night. Please take a look at it here: http://cebuana80.blogspot.com/2005/10/heres-pouch-bag-that-i-made-yesterday.html

thanks for viewing!