Booklet Progress: Project 11 Complete

Man, you guys are good! I loved reading all the comments. I can totally see how it would have looked like a doggie sweater, a diaper cover, or a top. Well, some of you guessed it straight out (I'm so proud!). Those grannies lying below are a purse. This was a fun project for me to crochet and change, oh, about 50 times. But I'm happy with the turn out and I think it will be really cute in the new booklet.

Project 11: Purse

Pattern and Sample Complete

1. Why did you choose this project for your booklet?
A wise editor told me once that every good book or magazine needs to have a few quick projects to draw in its readers. After thinking on her words, I totally agreed. Think about it. Usually when I look at a magazine, I can be totally inspired by all the projects. But the one I usually buy, is the one with the project I have to make now. For me, that's always something small that I can give as a gift. So I took her wise words, and used it for good in the booklet. This purse is quick to stitch and easy to gift.

2. What was your inspiration for this project? I cruise fashion mags constantly to get the up to the minute vibe on style and trends. The slouchy purse was all over my mags when I was designing this fall, so I really wanted to reinvent one in crochet. I had the basic idea of the shape I wanted, and I knew it was going to be a hexagonal granny. But I wasn't sure how those were going to meld. Plus, I really wanted fabulous hardware for the bag. I think I shopped for two months for the handle for the bag- obsessive much?

3. What drew you to this crochet stitch/square?
I fell in love with the center flower in the granny. I loved how the post stitches made it pop out and raise up. And if you are going to crochet the same square over and over- it might as well be fun to do right?

4. Did any of the project change while you were writing?
Oh yeah! As I said I had a vague idea of the style I wanted. Something slouchy. But I had no idea how to piece it together. I crocheted what I thought I wanted and tried piecing it together, but it kept looking one dimensional and I really wanted a 3D project. Then it hit me while I was playing. Soccer balls are made of pentagons; why not try twisting some of the hexagons around. And Viola! I got my purse. The shape ended up being more like a hobo then a slouch, but I still think it’s cute.

5. What is your goal with this project?
My goal was a quick project that would make a great gift. I really think this one will. Who can't use another purse, right?

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Pardon my absence this coming week, if you are trying to get a hold of me. I am sending out all the projects on the booklet this week, as well as, finishing and shipping a number of magazine projects. I will resurface from time to time, but might be hard to reach for at least a week. Don't think I don't love you, I do. I am just under a tight deadline and can barely remember to get dressed some days. Hope you all have a great week. Wish me luck!