October 28, 2012 - Started this about a month ago for Jezi’s birthday (September 17) but set it aside for a bit for…some reason. Was working on my Haruni instead, and the the new WoW expansion came out, then I got a new job…. So I finally picked it back up again yesterday and got the front piece done.

I’m learning a few things while knitting this pattern:

• It’s making me realize I’m not a fan of cables (ribbing patterns, yes, cables, not really). The hierarchy of knitting techniques that I have (albeit minor) experience in and that I enjoy right now are: Stranded colorwork, ribbing, lace, then WAY WAY WAY down on the list is cables.

• It’s forcing me to learn how to purl continental. Because SEED STITCH.

• I’m discovering how a yarn strand guide on my finger is helping with learning how to purl continental. It gives me one less thing to worry about as I focus on learning how to maintain tension.

• I’m a little worried about having enough yarn. Jezi wanted a smaller bag than the one pictured in the pattern, and I think I’ll have enough, but if not, I’ll have to get creative with the lining.

• Yes, I’m planning to line it. I have
  some really pretty brocade and china
  silk in my stash that I plan to use.
  If I’m intelligent and clever I
  may even make it reversible.

However, the front piece is done and looks really pretty. This Galileo yarn is glorious to work with, and Jezi is really happy with how it’s turning out so far.

December 30, 2012 - FINISHED! Well, the knitting is finished, anyway! I discovered that knitting the bag pieces wasn’t so bad. Yes, I’m still not a fan of cables, but I got used to them. I HATED knitting the strap. I made it 12 stitches wide instead of 8 (because it’s a small bag, going to be lined, and needed a little more room inside) and had to make it LONG. It was so tedious. And I kept making mistakes BECAUSE it was tedious.

Anyway, pulled it off the blocking wires today, and it’s BEAUTIFUL. The yarn feels SO good! I really want to get more and make a garment out of it. I absolutely loveLoveLOVE the yarn.

I’ll change this to “finished” once I get the lining done. I’m trying to be sneaky so at least SOMETHING about this bag is a surprise.

It’s a late birthday gift, but will be worth it!

February 2, 2013 - Finished for real now! I lined it in some pretty brocade in my stash, and even some china silk. I had a tough time figuring out the best way to attach the knit part to the lining, and ended up using some fusible webbing and top stitching it together with my machine. Not the most ideal way, but I was afraid hand-stitching the edges together wouldn’t hold it.

I’m happy with how it turned out and will post the pictures soon! Most importantly, Jezi loves it!