The other day some members of the Yarnist Society were talking about knitting emergencies, and what you should have in your bag.
So I thought it would be good opportunity to put together my *perfect* knitting bag.
There’s quite a few items so let’s get into it:
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Hearth & Harbor Craft Bag
The first thing we need is a place to put our project, needles, notions, and other accessories. There are a few reasons why I like this bag: Enough capacity to hold 24 skeins of yarn (100g each). Plenty of pockets to store essential items. Water bottle pocket on the side. Grommets to thread your project yarn through (great for managing colorwork!). Mini bag for organizing notions. Multiple colors to choose from. Affordable!.
Get it at Amazon -
Interchangeable Knitting Needles
This is one of two more expensive items on this list, but the only one I think is essential. There is no better investment for a serious knitter than a set of quality interchangeable knitting needles. You can use them for almost ANYTHING, and if you learn to knit Magic Loop you can even forgo owning double pointed needles. I'm a HUGE fan of the Addi Click series. I have been using the Lace Clicks shown above for over 10 years, and I bought a set of the Bamboo Clicks a couple years back. I even plan to purchase their Rocket Square Clicks and maybe the Olive wood ones too. They are by far the easiest to use, the cables don't have much memory, the needles are high quality, and I LOVE the compact magnetic wallets they come in. 😍 But, if you're looking for a more affordable option, the Knit Picks Options are a decent value for your money.
Get it at Amazon -
Knitting notions w/organizer
There are a few knitting notions I believe are essential. This kit has most of them and a few more for a very reasonable price. Plus it comes with a handy organizer to keep everything easy to find. But here's a list of what I think this should include: Yarn snips or scissors (I like this one). Tailors measuring tape (This one is VERY popular). Locking removable stitch markers (You'll never run out of these). Darning needles (These have big eyelets).
Get it at Amazon -
Gauge ruler
Now you might be thinking, I already have a measuring tape, why do I need a gauge ruler? I like these square swatch rulers because they make it A LOT easier to count your stitches. Just count what's in the middle square and you're good to go! It's lightweight and flexible and even has a needle gauge.
Get it at Amazon -
Repair hook
This is one you may not have every heard of, but they are super useful! I was turned onto these by a designer many years ago. They're perfect for repairing dropped stitches, counting gauge, picking up stitches along the edge of your work, working bobbles, and more. You wouldn't think having a hook on one end and a point on the other would make a huge difference but it really does!
Get it at Amazon -
Needle extension tubes
There are places that sell these tubes in special packaging with a few feet of length. But it's the same stuff as this rubber tubing. So what do you use it for? Well you slip the hollow tubing over the tips of your needles, and you can spread your work out to try it on. Very simple idea but incredibly useful. They also work as waste yarn for holding stitches!
Get it at Amazon
Optional (But still really useful)
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Neck light
The other day I did a whole article on lighting options for crafting. This is one that is very nice to have because it's portable and discreet. Plus it comes in a bunch of lovely colors.
Get it at Amazon -
Knitting Pattern Keeper
If you're someone who likes to print out your patterns, this little magnetic board is a lifesaver. It allows you to easily track your place in a chart or pattern, and keep it at a nice angle for hands free viewing.
Get it at Amazon -
Digital Mobile Tablet
I'm an Apple guy but I know an iPad is not in everyone's price range. However I think having a digital tablet for storing and viewing tutorials and patterns is darn close to a necessity these days. The great thing about an Amazon Fire tablet is you can also watch videos, read or listen to books, and even use apps like..
Get it at Amazon
KnitCompanion • Free (with in-app purchases)
There are very few *essential* knitting apps, but this might be one of them.
It allows you to import PDFs and track your progress through a pattern.
There’s chart tracking, and even video tutorials as well.
Plus they have a library of patterns that have been optimized for KnitCompanion to give you the best experience possible!
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Conclusion
So there you have it!
This is close to my perfect bag.
But what do you think?
Did I miss an item you would have included?