Purse Power

Crocheted Tote - Smile Yarn and Aunt Lydia's

I bought this used book over the weekend "Handbags: The Power of the Purse" by Anna Johnson (2002). It's one of those little books about the history of the handbag, with tons of excellent photographs. There are sections on classic bags by Fendi, Gucci, Hermes, etc., a section on novelty handbags, American classics, ornamental and decorated bags, sculptural bags, etc. It contains a wealth of information on one of my alltime obsessions.....purses!

Over the years I've crocheted and knitted tons of handbags, including granny square bags, felted bags, soutache clutches, totes, etc. There is something very satisfying about creating something so useful.

My latest foray into bag making is a crocheted tote made from Smile Yarn and Aunt Lydia's Rug Yarn with a little acrylic from my stash thrown in. I cut some plastic canvas for the bottom of the bag and then took a tip from Lady Linoleum and crocheted a lining for the bag instead of sewing in a fabric lining. The handles are some that I'd purchased at the Knit Cafe years ago....finally put to use! I added an inner pocket for my cellphone, a loop at the top with a plain button for closure. This project probably took about 4 or 5 hours to complete...love that!