What's in my project bag? Well, actually, I have two project bags. I have a big bag that I normally keep at home, and I have a smaller bag that's easier to grab and take with me because apparently I need options. In my big bag, I usually have two or three projects along with the patterns, the working yarn, and a hook for each project inside the bag. I have two zippered compartments; that's where I keep my yarn holder/spinner, yarn needles, travel-size scissors, tissues, row counter, and stitch markers.
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And Chapstick. I never leave home without Chapstick. I'm kind of a Chapstick addict. I have a quilted pouch a talented friend made for my hooks.
In my small bag, I usually have one small project. It's usually whatever I'm currently working on that is small and portable. Sometimes it's a dishcloth or granny squares that I can just grab and go. It has hand lotion, a lighted compact mirror (just in case), yarn, hooks, patterns, stitch markers, yarn needles, row counter, and any notes I need for the project. I keep all of the small items in the quilted bag and transfer them to whichever bag I'm using.
I like to keep my patterns in a page protector that you can get at Office Max or Staples. (My good friend Angela told me about this idea.) I put the pattern inside and use a dry-erase marker to mark off where I am in the pattern. Then I don't get lost. It is especially helpful when I put it down and come back to it later. I also keep any notes that I might have for the project. Then there's my dad's tape measure. It's just a tiny tape measure that he used to carry in his pocket. I know tape measures aren't usually something you think of as sentimental crochet supplies, but this one makes me think of my dad and makes me happy, so I carry it with me in his memory.
I also have tissues and lipstick. A girl's got to be prepared! We can't forget Chapstick! You never know when a Chapstick emergency might happen.
The bag itself
As for the bags themselves, my big bag is a Bogg Bag. I got it for Christmas last year and love that I can take it with me on a road trip or just use it at home. It's not too big, but it has a lot of little compartments, and I can fit quite a bit of yarn in it. Even a big blanket.
My small bag is something I crocheted a couple of years ago with Lion Brand Mandala Gradient yarn. It's a nice bag, big enough for a couple of small projects.
Markers and counters
As for stitch markers, I've used all kinds of things over the years. When I have to improvise, I usually use a piece of yarn or a piece of string, or even a paper clip, but I do like to have the cute ones with me. Especially if they come in a cute little case! I like the kind that are like little pins that close.
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They are plastic, come in bright colors, and are easy to use. I have different varieties of stitch markers. I think with crochet it's really important to have stitch markers that stay closed and that don't snag on your yarn. There's nothing worse than finally getting into a rhythm and having your stitch marker decide it wants to become part of the project.
What travels with me
My yarn stash never leaves the house. It stays right here. It's way too big to carry around with me, so I take my current project if it's portable. I normally leave my yarn holder/spinner at home too unless I'm going on a road trip. I'll be bringing a big project along, but if I'm just going to the doctor's office or somewhere I know I'll be sitting and can crochet, I'll bring something small, usually a small skein of yarn like a dishcloth or granny square.
When traveling on a plane, I bring whatever small project I'm working on. What would I take on the plane? Definitely stitch markers, a small pair of TSA-safe scissors, my crochet hooks, the pattern or the book, and the yarn. Also, any notes that I have on the project. Basically, if it helps me crochet, fits in my bag, and doesn't require me to bring my entire yarn stash, it's probably coming along.
What I've lost
What have I lost from my bag? It's more like, what haven't I lost? I'm always losing scissors, stitch markers, and hooks. I think the thing that makes me the most sad is I had a beautiful pair of travel scissors that I just loved and I don't know where they went. They just disappeared. Hopefully somebody gave them a nice, good home. I've replaced the scissors, but it's not the same. They were really cute scissors.
What I'd replace first
What would I replace if it vanished? I would definitely replace my yarn, my hooks, or anything else that's essential for crocheting. Most of those things are pretty inexpensive, so it's not a huge deal if I misplaced something. I would go right out to the store immediately.
Crochet is so important to me, and it is important for my mental health. Going without crochet would be like going without medication. It keeps me sane and helps me wind down and think about my day.
What's in your bag? I'd love it if you would share in the comments.
