Burda WOF August 2006 Crochet Bag Prototype

The bag muslin/prototype is done.
I wasn't planning to make the bag yet , just an enlarged swatch to understand the shell stitch pattern and get back to crochet .A few sessions later and a smaller version was made.

Details
Yarn: King Cole Fashion Casual 50%Viscose 50% Acrylic
Crochet Hook: 4mm
Tension: ?????
Lining : Silk Linen Home Dec weight fabric
Findings: Fabric as above used for straps bands and strap covers.D rings, metal slides( saving my nice buckles for the next bag) and electrical cable for bag handle.

Commentary:
Easy project using just double crochet(US single crochet) for body piece and shell pattern for bag band.The resulting fabric is dense and quite substantial.
Since I didnt use the right yarn weight the bag is about 8cm narrower but the same finished height as quoted .As a result I didnt fold at lower sides to create the gusset and used only one instead of two tucks at top of bag piece.
The bag is lined to the level of the bag band seam.
Sewers online raised the point that there was yarn strain at the seamline on the Burda WOF photographed version.

The good news is that no sexy or clever fix is required.The original was probably seamed with a crochet hook.Using a tapestry needle and backstitch seaming give a secure and stable join.
The Burda instructions were excellent and complete , going carefully through the handle/buckle and loop construction.
I especially loved the use of electrical cable as a finding for the bag handle.Gives a more substantial feel to them than cording would.Please remember to cover the cut ends with masking electrical tape.
The bag handle straps were fluted.If using woven , best to cut them on the bias.
It was a little tricky sewing the tabs on strechy metchy crochet portion.I didnt want to place small tabs on the wrong side.An option for further renditions would be to line the bag band shy of the shell edging and that will enclose any reinforcing tabs.Would also enable use of magnetic snaps instead of sew on snaps if desired


Observations:
I dont have bag making books and looked up two articles.
Taunton Threads Number 124.
May 2006.Unhelpful article which just listed various bag hardware and list of US suppliers.Great blown up pictures but no technical information on any group of hardware listed.So what???????I have issues with current Threads offering , but not here to whine.
Vogue Patterns Magazine June 2005.
Excellent synopsis on Handbags.Great for someone like me with bulging sewing bookcase and not sure about making loads of bags.Great pictures of the cording method for leather as in the Burda pattern.Also good and clear info on adding inner pockets, internal zipper and mobile phone holder.The magazine sold as Sewing Today featuring Vogue Patterns for UK/Europe.

Conclusion:
I have started collecting all the bits for the first keeper bag( Incidentally the prototype has been stolen/napped by a younger niece)
Using a wool/cashmere /nylon aran weight yarn.Lining will be silk twill or some coveted Aquascutum spot proof lining.I need to locate some leather/pleather/ultrasuede for straps and handle ( Brick Lane beckons).But will hold off until September.
Great project that makes it easier to reproduce other designer crochet/knitted bags.
Next on my list is the Valentino Cable cashmere bag( when I can settle down to chart the cables)

Style Options:
Rowan/Elan Denim yarn with tan leather with topstitching
Denim type yarn with print /plain denim fabrics
Preferred choice of wool/cotton/metallic yarns
Ribbon Yarn/Leather Thonging( Marita we know you have expensive taste)
Nylon Crochet cord ( Sac bags)