May 21
Greetings!
Summer has finally arrived, it's warm! Beautiful today, sunny and in the 80's..... we were all so ready! The peepers are loud at night (owls too) and bird song is constant throughout the day. The Canada Geese have had their little ones, five to start, now down to four. I planted some flowers, but still lots to come. We're in the process of getting the house stained (deck too) and have been working on it as time allows. The porch is done, so we can sit peacefully and keep company with the humming birds.
Two of my bags are featured in the latest issue (#6) of The Knitter. A new knitting magazine from the UK. I already have a subscription, love it... and recommend it. That brown cabled bag I did is from issue 1. More details next week......
When Betsy and I were at the NH Sheep & Wool Festival, I brought along one of my bags. Personally, I don't like shoulder straps on my wooden handled bags, but wanted them for that day..... which gave me the idea of a strap that can be used when wanted (like a wool festival!) and kept inside the bag when not in use. So I visited the folks at Champlain Leather in Burlington (going on 34 years in business) and asked if they could make me a strap that I could try out for that day. They did, and I loved it. I love leather, it lays flat, is comfortable, doesn't slide, goes with any fabric and will last forever. I have 11 coming tomorrow. I was hoping to have them available for tonight, but see them next week. OR, call to reserve one. Price is $28.00. Strap is 1" wide and is 61" long (the loop)... it simply goes under the handles and up and over the shoulder. Basic, but great.
I showed Betsy who is tall 5' 10" maybe? And it fit her well, I'm 5' 5" and the length is great for me too. I was home alone, but wanted to have a picture for you all to see it on the body, it's a bad shot... but you get the idea anyway. Let me know what you think..... about the strap that is, I know the picture its bad ;)
Also new tonight is the Portable Pattern Pocket..... inspired by Betsy! I keep a notebook of patterns, but am always misplacing the pattern (s) I'm currently working on. Or, I know where two are, but not the one I want to find. So.... here's a snappy, thin fabric envelope (if you will) designed to house current patterns. Both the inside and outside are interfaced, and each will have a vintage button. I'll keep the buttons on that flat side in case you'd like it in your bag (easier to get it in and out). I love mine (seen here) and it feels good to have them organized and in one place. They'll be offered tonight. Also, Allison is working on a new page that will replace the Hall of Fame. It will be called Gallery of Bags and will be able to show many more bags.
I haven't had as much time this week to knit, making my fingers itchy to pick up my work! Trust me.... a paint brush isn't as much fun....
Welcome to the many gals who signed up this week!
Okay, time to continue the typing marathon......
Hope this finds you well good women as we knit on in to summer!
Martha.
