Tuesday, September 23, 2008

INKNITBITIONS

Liz's Knit A Beach Bag

Of course, my definition of 'free-range' applies to knitting not chickens.  You knew that, didn't you? My design style appeals to the adventurous, for those easily bored with working in a single yarn  and for whom translating acres of knit code feels more chore than pleasure. Many don't buy into the 'one right way' of doing things: they're rebels, explorers and innovators. Even those who would have once hesitated to call themselves creative have unfolded  art-quality pieces because they've allow their inknitbitions to fall away. The mantra of free-range knitting, after all,  is simple: there are no mistakes, only explorations. Case in point, Liz's Knit a Beach Bag.

It began life as a part of the Knit a Beach vest (see knitalong here for more info here: http://www.janethornley.com/blog/index.php/site/Knitalong/)

...but time and circumstances altered the path. Here's the tale of it's birth, told in Liz's own words from her JockeyGal projects in Ravelry:

"Size issues were a problem, but not the pattern’s fault…..I just didn’t want to knit the back of the vest of a size to fit me. So the vest was stuck in a project bag and placed in a glass cabinet. I often looked at that bag and was sad that the vest wouldn’t be completed as I loved it.

Had a little epiphany about a week ago. Today I know about steeks but at that time during another sewing project I said “Hmmm…see how we cut between those zig-zags and it doesn’t ravel? Man, I could do something with my beach…..something that is one size, fits all!!”

So I went to the stash and found some sand colored ultra suede and I went to my closet and found a bag (I have oh, several, lol) that was simple yet pleasing in design and I got at the sewing machine.

I took the pattern off the original bag with freezer paper, bought another bag just like the original, and went at it. The second bag gave up its life so as the new one could live!

Inside the bag, there are holders for a cell phone, a pen and a pencil, a notebook, a key snap and an extra slot. There is a hidden zipper pocket large enough to zip my billfold up which for me eases the worry of losing my billfold.

The top has a magnetic closure and the strap on top of the ring system is made of the same suede. All hardware was harvested from the second bag.

Truly, a labor of love and I am extremely pleased with this project."

Charming detail (catch the fishnet!)

Not just goodlooking but practical

The Original

From the entry 'Wild, Mysterious Australia'. Jane, it's lovely to hear my everyday world described through the eyes of a newcomer....it makes me look at things afresh. Looking forward to meeting you in Sydney shortly.

By Christine Jones on 2008 12 28