8-17-16: Love the look of this bag and have wanted to make it for a long time! It’s been a couple of years since I worked with nylon thread and it took a little getting used to, but think I’ve got it now. :) Will see what the base size turns out to be before I decide if I’ll need to alter for size.

8-18-16: After frogging twice because of size issues, I think I finally have it! Used a G hook just for the beginning chain and then switched to the F hook; needed that little bit of extra room to work around both side of the chain. Chained 30 to start, worked the pattern through round 11. Then, did a rnd 12 the same as rnd 9, but with sc in 4 stitches instead of 3 between the increases on each end. Then repeated rnds 10 & 11. Final stitch count on the base is 138, so I will have a lot more repeats than the pattern originally called for. Base measures: 14 3/4” x 6 1/2”.

8-19-16: Finished the 1st 2 1/2 rounds of the star stitch pattern. Didn’t get as much done as I planned, but at least I can see the bag taking shape.

8-20-16: 1st skein of thread ran out about 1/4 of the way around the 3rd repeat of the top of the star stitch round.

8-21-16: Doing a total of 7 star stitch rounds. Not sure how many sc rounds to the top yet (I ended up doing 10 rounds of sc). Will probably need to make at least one handle before I decide. Will be starting my 3rd skein of thread near the end of the 4th repeat of round 2 at the top of the bag. Will work on handles before continuing on the body of the bag. Bag is nearly 8” tall.

08-25-16: Finally finished the handles, now just to sew on and add lining. I followed the pattern directions (3 rounds)for the handle, but chained 100 instead of 60 (they came out about 25” long). I used a 1/2 cotton cording (like you use to make your own piping) for the inside of the handles and it fit perfectly. I cut them a little longer than needed (with ends taped). When I got the handles finished, I trimmed the ends of the cord and glued them with washable fabric glue. Hopefully this will keep them in place and keep the cording from unraveling. Still need to run in the ends and knot. Since the glue I have says it’s not for nylon, I’ll use a lighter to singe the ends after it’s been knotted. Laying flat, the bag is about 16 1/2” W x 12 1/2” T.

09-08-16 Work really slowed down the progress on this. Had the handles sewn on (finally) on the 4th, but is the 1st day I’ve been home early enough to take pictures (the color is more accurate in the other pictures). I will put a piece of plastic canvas in the bottom when I line the bag, but it will be at least 2 weeks before I can do that. It really doesn’t have to have a lining, but I like pockets in a bag, so I will do it. Really enjoyed making this bag and have plans to make a few more!! :)