WWI Red Cross Knitting Bag

This weekend I threw together a linen Red Cross knitting bag based off an original that sold on ebay a while back (left image). The original measures 20" tall and 18-19" wide, as does my reproduction (right image). There was no information if the original had a lining, but I put in a light colored polished cotton from my sewing stash. The cross is red cotton flannel. I went on an epic quest to four different stores in a metropolitan area to get the purse handles. Only Jo-Ann's Supercenters carry purse making supplies, Michael's has clear plastic handles to crochet cover, nothing at Wal-Mart, and finally Hancock Fabrics was the promised land. I wish the handles were a bit larger to spread out the gathered fabric better, but the next size up was enormous. I wanted to have it made for this weekend as I am attending a WWI Living History event and wanted to work on my knitting with a better knitting bag than the vintage one I have that looks good for WWII, but not WWI.

Original WWI knitting bag (left), my reproduction (right).

Polished cotton bag lining.

WWI Silk Satin Hat

I am getting together a WWI era outfit for a centennial event in August and have been slowly putting bits and pieces together.  I just finished another version of the Lynn McMasters pattern (the first was cotton velvet in View D) and I was pleased with how it came out.  I made a special trip to Downtown LA earlier this year to pick up supplies at California Millinery (oh my, I love that place), and also found a satin that had a nice backing, not too stiff or slippery, and didn't scream synthetic.  I really like how this hat turned out and really liked working with a curved needle on this project.  For trim I have an antique spray of black wheat to add, and that's about it.

Lynn McMasters pattern, View B

Lynn McMasters pattern, View B interior

Circa 1917 Ensemble

I put together a World War I civilian outfit in a week last year to attend the Fort MacArthur timeline event in July but didn't get any pictures.  We were invited to a 1920s New Years party and were encouraged by the host to wear our stuff, even though it was a bit out of date. It's hard to see in the photo but the dress has ruffles on the bum that are just too fun.    

Bob Herron photography.

Hat made from Lynn McMasters pattern in brown cotton velvet.

Past Patterns #8159: Ladies' Dress with Two-Piece Skirt