Work in Progress - Tote Bag

I started this bag almost a year ago but had to put it down to work on other things. You know how that is :) I wanted to design a tote bag that is big enough to carry my crochet projects. (books also) If you are familiar with my books or me as a designer, you already know that some of my favorite color combinations are pinks, greens, plums, wines and purples. I adore that color palette, and am always drawn to yarn in those colors. Since my stash has lots of my favorite colors, I decided to make the bag in worsted weight, as well as some novelty yarns. I wanted to make this bag fun, and one that would get a lot of attention, so I decided to make handles with large beads in the same colors as the bag. I'm still looking for more beads. I have to give my friend, Melody Kelly, the credit for this inspiration. She made a similar bag in her colors, but she also had bought a dark purple, crochet bag with beautiful, colorful beaded handles at Cracker Barrel. You know what wonderful gifts they have! (unique and one of a kind) I just had to have one of my own! As soon as I finish the bag I will have the pattern up for sale. Hope you enjoy it.

Striped Tote Bag with Beaded Handles

Sneak Peak of my Crochet Cowl

I recently made an afghan square in an Aran stitch pattern with Cables and decided I like the texture so much that I wanted to make a cowl with the same pattern stitch. This is not a quick pattern, but is fairly easy. I'm using Cascade 220 100% wool, bought at my local yarn shop, Fiberworks in Beavercreek. I'm not crazy about the stiffness of this wool, but am going to use a solution, called Eucalan, specifically made to soften wool. I think it's really important to use very soft yarn for a scarf or cowl that will be close to the neck and face. Cascade has many colors available but I already had the tan. The cowl is finished, but I'm waiting for my model to have a day off work, so we can have a photo shoot. I'll post photos as soon as I can. The pattern will be available soon!

UPDATE: The Cabled Cowl - 7 patterns in one! is now available to be purchased. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to get this up for sale The reason is because I lost my handwritten pattern and looked for it for several months. One day I found it by accident and was so happy. I've had many people email or contact me through Ravelry, saying they want to buy this and are eager to get started. I can't believe I finally have it ready! If you are one of those people, I hope you didn't give up!