 For months I have been searching for the perfect
crocheted bag to make. Something large enough to carry my current crochet
projects while showcasing the beauty of crochet. And, I will admit, I was
looking for something quick and easy but that would be a "statement" bag. The
Flaming Tote (at left), from the Fall 2007 issue of Knitscene, certainly has what it takes to
attract attention. The project description captures the essence of this bag
perfectly, "Say it loud with single crochet! Engineered panels joined with
contrasting trim create the bowling-bag-inspired shape. Set it ablaze with
shaped appliqué."
If I worked it in a deep green yarn with
bright yellow and orange flames, this pattern is exactly what I was looking
for. And I found it where I hadn't thought to look-Knitscene! When Knitscene was first published, it offered a
variety of both knit and crochet patterns. Most of these patterns were either
an introduction to a new technique or a fun interpretation of a basic stitch-such as the single crochet
used for the Flaming Tote-intended to satisfy the crafter who enjoys both
knitting and crochet.
These back issues are now easily accessible in
two four-issue CD collections. I own both collections, and my hunt for the
perfect bag has yielded two more projects for my queue. The Herringbone Skirt
(below) crafts a simple crocheted chevron pattern into a sophisticated skirt
with a flirty hem, perfect for a summer workday. And the knitted Hero Pullover
(at right) would make a great gift for my dad.
Pick up your own copies of the Knitscene CD collections and find the
perfect crocheted or knitted project for yourself or to give as a gift.
Knitscene has evolved into an all-knitting
magazine, but if you have fallen in love with the easy and super-wearable knit
patterns it features like I have, you can now sign up for auto-ship at the Crochet Me Shop. Auto-ship will automatically
ship the upcoming fall issue to your mailbox-a definite plus for those of us
with busy lives. Auto-ship also allows you to receive upcoming issues with free
shipping.
Best wishes,
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