Rounded Arches Spindle Bag to Sew and Embroider

There are many fun and useful projects to make with bargello needlepoint—pillows, chair seats, purses, book covers, pincushions—but the perfect project for a handspinner is a spindle bag.

Bargello stitching offers endless opportunities for experimenting with color, yarns, and patterns. I have chosen the traditional Rounded Arches pattern, but any pattern of your choice is fine. The needlepoint area to be worked is a rectangle, approximately 8 by 11 inches. Simple repeating shapes allow you to repeat contrasting colors for a more modern look, work in a gradient of colors (which spinners love), or work in a more monochromatic palette and explore different fibers.

MATERIALS

• Fiber 100% Merino wool, 2 oz (57 g).
• Yarn 2-ply; 75 yd MC; 1,000 ypp; 12 wpi; worsted weight; handspun by Kelly McKenzie of Cedar Valley Fibers. Maine Line DK 3/8 (100% wool; 1,490 yd/lb; Jagger Spun; worsted spun), 75 yd CC, Navy.
• Notions 11" x 14" piece of cotton mesh canvas #12; 12" x 24" piece of cotton velveteen (other fabric with a firm weave can be used, such as Ultrasuede, corduroy, etc.); 14" zipper, color to match fabric; 1½ yd sturdy ¼" cording; cord stopper to fit cord; tapestry needle (round blunt end, elongated eye), size 22; small scissors; straight pins; zipper foot (optional); sewing needle and thread.
• Finished Size 10" circumference x 21" long.

Author/Designer: Linda Perry