Crochet Touché - Bag Strap

As you may or may not know, I love to crochet.

I learned by watching my Oma, not the woman you met in the last newsletter, but her daughter. They shared the name Franziska, which was also my mother's middle name. My Uroma did not knit or crochet. My Oma was a knitting/crocheting fiend. She always had something on the make and carried her projects with her wherever she went. 

I don't like to knit. I'm not coordinated enough or attentive enough. 

Crocheting is like meditation to me.

Unfortunately, living in Florida now, my useful projects are limited. No mittens, caps, scarves, sweaters, blankets---too hot.

And I like useful because I like natural fibers and they are expensive.

My current project is a strap for a laptop bag. I lost the one that came with it originally, so I've been trying to find something else. 

Crochet straps are really stretchy, especially with a little weight. I thought I had the problem solved, but I didn't use the fishing line. I'll have to try weaving it in after the fact.

The yarn is Peaches & Creme Stripey - 17007 Green Stripes - worsted 4-ply, 2 oz, 102 yards, 100% cotton, Mediun 4

Here are pictures of what I have so far.

Here are the links to the patterns and processes I used"

Spiral Rope used to link the handle to the bag

Tunisian Butterfly applique for the 13 butterflies - these are so cute in person.

The Fishing Line Trick

The strap itself was made with the Thermal Stitch which is so satisfying. I'll have to think of something else to use this stitch for.