How to pick the right Knitting Bag for you

A knitting bag is as important to a knitter as the type of needles they use, or the kind of yarn they like to work with. There are all kinds of bags available, and they are all built for different people in mind. So how do you pick one that's right for you?

Pick a bag that's right for your project

First, you have to decide what kind of project you will want to carry. If you generally work on small projects, then you should look for smaller bags; larger projects need larger bags. If you work a little of both, then you'll need to find both. Keep in the mind that the reason for having a knitting bag is that it to be able to take your project anywhere you go. The smaller your project is, the easier it will be to keep with you. If you had a choice to carry around a sweater or a sock, I would recommend carrying the sock.

Pick a bag that will hold everything you need

Your bag should be big enough to carry all the items you will need for your project. Typically, your knitting bag should have room for:

• Your project, with enough room for when it' s just beginning, as well as when it's almost done
• The yarn you are using for the project, with enough for your time away from home
• Your needles, as well as other needles you might need to work on the project (like a crochet hook)
• A row counter if you are working on a complex enough pattern that you have to remember were you left off
• Stitch holders
• Small pair of scissors
• Yarn needle
• Small tape measure
• The pattern you are working from

Yarn Traveler Knitting Bags

Knitting bags made from oil cloth or vinyl coated fabric. Perfect for socks or other small knitting projects. Lots of styles to choose from.

Green Mountain Bags: Larger size knitting bags made from various materials: www.greenmountainknittingbags.com

Knitone Bags: Medium size bags: www.knitone.com

Pick a bag that will keep your project safe

You might want to pick a bag that you can easily stow away in your backpack, purse or luggage along with your things you usually carry with you. Making your knitting bag into your regular carry-along bag is usually a bad idea. You want your knitting and accessories all together, with other things like your wallet and keys separate. Not only will it keep your knitting more organized and tidy, it will also keep it clean.

• Pick a bag with material that will stand up to the elements, such as canvas, oil cloth or vinyl-coated fabric
• A bag with a pocket, or small accessory totes that you can place in the bag will keep your small accessories together

Pick a knitting bag you'll love carrying around

Most importantly, you should choose a bag that you will love carrying with you. Find bags that are made from material and patterns you like, and a bag that you find easiest to carry with you. Otherwise you won't use it.

It's okay to have more than one bag

If you're like most knitters, you'll have more than one project going at one time. Don't be afraid to have more than one knitting bag for your various projects. Sometimes you'll be in the mood to knit your socks, and other times you'll want to knit a hat. Having more than one bag will also help you store your project safely at home while you're working on another project.

A knitting bag is a great way to carry your knitting everywhere you go without getting it dirty or losing your stitch markers, and it allows you easy access to your project. Every knitter should have at least one, so if you're an avid knitter or just starting out, I hope this helped you pick the right bag. Happy knitting!

-- The Yarn Traveler

http://www.yarntraveler.com