Project Bags ...

A little while ago I was browsing instagram and noticed some lovely project bags for sale on Etsy by a New Zealand Crafter, trading as Roseabylily.

I started following Roseabylily on Instagram, even though I didn't really need to purchase any more bags! My interest had been piqued however - by the range offered, the reasonable prices, and the feedback of those who had already purchased ... not to mention the Worldwide Free Postage offer available until the end of November 2017. And then ... Roseabylily had a very short, quick sale - so, suddenly I decided to make a purchase! I placed my order, choosing a lovely set of two bags, made up of a med - large project bag and a matching, zippered notions bag.

My choice was based on the fact that: a) I have a thing about drawstring bags!

b) The fabric I chose reminded me of the roses in some retro china that I own. I guess that means I also have a thing about roses!

It was six days from the placement of my order until it arrived at my door. Considering the bags were also made within that period I was super impressed! Monique, the owner and maker behind Roseabylily, had been communicating regularly with me as well! My parcel arrived very carefully wrapped - with a discount coupon attached for future use!

And ... when I opened the parcel I beheld two lovely bags - both fully and expertly lined, with amazing attention to detail! The fabric is gorgeous. And soft! But sturdily so! I love that the project bag can double as a yarn 'bowl' since the top may be folded down on itself to make it stay firmly open, and it has a rectangular base which lets the bag sit upright on a flat surface.

And then ... I also discovered that this lovely set really did complement my retro china! But no - I will not be transporting said china in bag! I guess I am just quietly musing here ... that my eye for colour and design has once again proven to be pretty accurate!

My set has made it's debut with the Euphoria Cardigan I am currently crocheting, and which also became part of the photo shoot. I am nearly finished this cardigan, which fits into the bag along with the items pictured in the 1st photo - although with the whole garment it is a little bit of a squash. Bearing in mind that this is a rather large project though - the fact that it fits at all is quite ok with me! I was not expecting this bag to be big enough for a garment, but rather, experimenting with what I could actually fit into it. Monique tells me she is also looking at offering options for bigger bags, for those who like to immerse themselves in larger projects.

Everything in the photos (apart from the china - of course!) fits into the project bag, with the notions bag - and I also still have room in the notions bag for any other smaller items I might need. The Clear File (for my printed pdf patterns) in the top photo is A5 size, which I prefer to A4, since it is more portable - and therefore also great for popping into this bag.

Monique is lovely to deal with! She is extremely communicative and friendly throughout the process. All of which adds up - to great products backed up by great service!

And guess what? Not only does Monique make and sell project bags ... but she also makes knitting needle holders/organisers, which need to be seen to be believed! There are other items listed in her store too: including home decor items, baby gifts, gift tags featuring mini, knitted items, craft envelope clutch bags, pin cushions - and ... dog accessories!

I think I should mention here that while I realise some people write reviews on their blogs/websites because they receive the items for free in exchange for that - in my case I decided I was so happy with my purchase that I wanted to write a review. And it has given me great pleasure to do so.

So check Roseabylily out if you haven't already done so - you won't be disappointed! Instagram and facebook are great ways to keep up to date with Roseabylily. And Monique also has an instagram page devoted to the fabrics she uses, should you wish to follow that.