Return to the bag

 

It's been a few months since I last posted on my blog.  I have been struggling with both my physical and mental health and haven't been able to concentrate as much as I would like on any projects.

I have made a few simple shoulder bags in the past but hadn't thought to take any photos of them so when I finally made a bag for myself, I've made the effort to show it off.

Firstly, I wanted something functional - I hate it when straps fall off your shoulder and you need your arms to keep it in place.  Secondly, I wanted something unique.  

I'm not going to provide exact instructions as this was done off the cuff but I will show you what I've included to give you some ideas.

Like with most of my projects, this is made from rectangles and squares with 1 part that's a triangle.  The original idea was a proper 'utility' bag with plenty of pockets but I just didn't have the energy in me to keep adding to it.  I also realised that the more pockets I add, the more I'm likely to put in the bag which means it will stretch more.

Unlike previous bags I've made, I actually bought a ready made strap for this one (I'm a leader with Girlguiding UK and they happen to sell straps).  I've had a few experiences where no matter what stitch I've used on a strap, it just stretches so I decided not to do that on this one.  To add this clasp strap, I bought some D rings which I stitched onto the outside of the bag itself.

There is a zip too so nothing falls out because I'm prone to forgetting that my bag is open and bending down in shops to get something and watching my phone fall out!  The front pocket is for decoration mainly to break up the grey of the bag but it is functional.

Given the colours on the strap, I added a lilac coloured zip and pink button to the front just to carry on the colourful theme.

This is a super easy style bag to make - you can make this with any yarn weight and any size hook, in crochet or knit!  Why not give it a try and see what you can create?