A New Handmade Bag from my Grandma

June 29, 2012

Last weekend my auntie and uncle, who live on the west coast, had work obligations in the city of Montréal. It was very serendipitous that we happened to be living here for the month and could connect with them one afternoon. We don't see our west coast relations very often.

In addition to eating gelato and hanging out in the old port for the afternoon, auntie brought gifts (I've never been a very good auntie in this regard).

A total surprise for me was this bag, made by my grandma.

I've talked before about my grandma's creative gifts in my life. I was thrilled with the totally unexpected bag my auntie delivered from my grandma.

The photos here don't do it justice but it's such a clever design. By simply pulling the handle strap the bag closes up and takes a perfect shape for toting around.

I've used it all this week, when I'm traveling by car, for carrying my wallet, keys, phone, knitting, etc. (My poor knitting, that's another story. I totally messed up a couple rows back and I have some serious unraveling and stitch counting to do.)

I still prefer my backpack for taking the Metro and spending the day out on the town. But this bag is such a perfect size for out and about. I think it will be a great grocery trip bag, beach bag.

Thank you Grandma, I love it!

Update: My Grandma emailed me and shared that she has made 23 of these to date. 23! And only two have been the same color. I've seen my mom's, which has a green color scheme. My Grandma is so talented and creative. And she's doing all this in her eighties!