Saturday, October 03, 2009

something old, something new...

I made it! By the skin of my teeth, the deadline was met, and this special wedding bag was delivered on schedule.


I wanted to base this bag around the concept of "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue"

The "old" is the stitch pattern. Although this pattern is the Counterpane Accessories pouch from Handknit Holidays", the stitch pattern is based on a vintage one.


The "new" was the silk yarn - so luscious and soft. "Something borrowed" was my contribution in the creation. I was asked to make this, which I felt was like a borrowing of my craft, if that makes sense?



And of course, "something blue" was the sweet blue braid carefully stitched into the lining. If I had more time (and frankly, more embroidery skill!) I would have loved to feather-stitch this detail into the lining. I really think it would have added to the vintage feel and the hand crafted nature of the piece.

After searching Ravelry for ideas on the lining, I ended up making a zippered pouch to insert and attach to the knitted outer shell. I used interfacing to stiffen thick calico, then lined it inside and out with ivory satin. This made the bag much less floppy, and made for a much neater sewn edge next to the zip. A rather long tassel finished it off.

I'm so thrilled with the finished piece, and even though it meant leaving for Ballarat at 8.30am this morning (2 hour drive from my place), it was worth it!

15 comments:

Gidgetknits said...

Oh, I especially love the touch of the blue braid. It's gorgeous - it'll be an heirloom!

2paw said...

What a beautiful gift and I love that it embodies the whole four bridal things!! It's so lovely and very thoughtful.

Rose Red said...

It is just beautiful, a gorgeous thoughtful piece which will be treasured.

Rachael said...

That is just so absolutely WOW. LOVE it.

Susanne said...

You've done such a wonderful job, I'm sure the bride will keep it for many years and will tell the story of how it was made with such love and care especially for her. Well done!

Bells said...

Kylie it's perfection. Utter perfection. Well done!

Julia said...

Beautiful! Finishing can really make or break these sorts of things and you did such a good job! Lucky friend!

Leonie said...

Gorgeous, such an excellent bag! So, so clever of you!

home girl said...

knitting magic! its gorgeous

Sue said...

Gorgeous and beautiful too. I love the blue braid inside, just adds that magical touch to it.

DrK said...

that is just stunning! what an amazing gift, so well put together. amazing!

Melinda said...

Well done on a fantastic job.

Reckless Glue said...

this is unbelievably gorgeous--I love it!

Louise said...

Looks amazing Kylie. How incredibly skilled and clever you are. xo lj

Queen of the Tea Cosies said...

Lucky lucky bride. That is so beautiful. Exquisite in fact.