Work Knitting?

So in the last few months, I've been working hard to design, write and knit the samples of my original patterns. It has been quite a journey and I have landed in a space between full on indy designer and remaining a casual/personal knitting. My rule of thumb is that I don't submit a pattern unless I'm in love with it and want one for myself. This way I am less likely to burn out while knitting the samples.

This rule did not apply for the first two patterns. And you will probably recognize them...

They had to be re-colored and knit for approval through Knit Picks IDP, but that's okay because these bags are so useful and fun! I discovered that the spindle bag doubles for carrying home a Starbucks cup without getting your hand all frozen and wet!

I tried my hand at designing a lace shawl. The lace itself turned out well, the yarn was lovely. However, I am definitely sensitive to mohair and the light/wind/my own photography skills did not do this piece justice. Luckily, Knit Picks has added this piece to the next photo shoot. I have no idea when this one will be up, but I'm excited to see a photo of it in all its glory!

Now this bag went live within the last week and I cannot wait to get the sample back in my hot little hands, because it is brilliant (I know that I am completely unbiased, but hear me out). First off, I love being able to take everything with me on day trips...I've obviously hit that mark with this giant! I also like to be able to go down to the pool and fall asleep in the sun. I do not so much like trying to find a place that will hide my phone, keys, etc that will keep them safe and that I won't forget about them in. So I put a pocket along the bottom of this bag. Nice, secure, and pretty darn discrete! Now, back to the idea of a day trip...nobody wants to walk into a restaurant at the end of the day with the dirty towels, previous outfits and several water bottles hanging off their back. So I took the inspiration I got from the stitches I used and the zipper placement to create a wonderful clutch purse! Just drop the essentials in it and leave the sunscreen in the car!

In full disclosure, yes I am selling these. No I'm not trying to get you to buy anything you don't need. Yes, I realize most of you don't knit. But its what I'm up to and here's the site where they're for sale... Rose Stewart's Knitting Patterns