A Stitched Past: A History of Project Bags in Fibre Arts
Whether you’re a knitter, crocheter, spinner, or weaver, chances are you have a favorite project bag (or five). But have you ever stopped to wonder where the tradition of using bags to store our fibre projects comes from?
Project bags have become more than just functional storage—they’re a statement of style, organization, and even identity in today’s fibre arts community. But their history is deeply woven into the fabric of daily life, long before zipper pouches and waxed canvas totes lined our craft rooms.
Let’s take a stroll through the evolution of project bags in fibre arts—from necessity to modern must-have.
Pre-Industrial Times: The Era of Utility
Before mass production and plastic storage bins, fibre arts were a daily chore and skill for survival. In many cultures, women would carry their spinning or knitting with them throughout the day. Project bags weren’t "project bags" yet—they were baskets, cloth pouches, or even aprons with deep pockets.
These makeshift storage methods allowed women to work on fibre prep or mending while minding children, walking to market, or socializing. The portability of fibre tools was key—just think of the iconic image of a shepherdess spinning wool while tending sheep.
18th & 19th Centuries: Reticules, Work Baskets, and Lady’s Pockets
During the 1700s and 1800s, knitting and embroidery were considered refined skills for women, especially in Europe. This gave rise to the reticule—a small, often elaborately decorated handbag used to carry essentials, including small needlework projects.
Work baskets also became household staples. These weren’t just storage—they were often beautifully crafted from wood or wicker, displayed with pride, and filled with ongoing mending or needlepoint. Some even had built-in compartments and pin cushions.
Fun fact: Many 19th-century women also wore tie-on pockets underneath their skirts—basically hidden pouches—to carry everything from keys to thread to half-finished lacework.
Early 20th Century: From Function to Fashion
With the industrial revolution and rise of the middle class, fibre crafts became both hobby and necessity. Project bags evolved alongside fashion trends. Small sewing kits, embroidery satchels, and crochet purses were marketed to women in popular magazines.
During wartime (especially WWI and WWII), many women carried knitting in fabric bags to contribute to the war effort. Socks, scarves, and mittens were knitted on buses, trains, and during volunteer meetings. Project bags in this era were simple, functional, and often handmade—crafted from scrap fabric or flour sacks.
Mid-Century to 1980s: The Craft Boom
Post-war, the mid-century saw a rise in leisure crafting. Store-bought knitting bags became common—often vinyl with metal frames and floral prints. These were the golden years of home economics, where crocheting, knitting, and sewing were taught in schools, and every crafter had a dedicated bag or basket for their supplies.
By the 1970s and ‘80s, macramé totes and patchwork bags were a reflection of the DIY spirit. Project bags became more personal, and makers often customized them or made their own.
Modern Era: The Project Bag Renaissance
Today, project bags are more than just utilitarian—they’re a whole subculture. With the rise of indie dyers, pattern designers, and fibre artists on platforms like Etsy and Instagram, handmade project bags have become collectibles.
You’ll find everything from waxed canvas roll-tops to minimalist linen drawstring bags, quirky prints to luxurious leather satchels. Bags now feature compartments for needles, grommets for yarn feeds, and even integrated notions storage. Some are themed to patterns, fandoms, or even seasonal yarn clubs.
And for many makers, choosing a bag is part of the project planning ritual. There’s something almost sacred about pairing the perfect yarn with the perfect bag.
The Project Bag: More Than a Container
From humble baskets to handcrafted artisan pieces, the project bag tells the story of how fibre arts have always been part of daily life. It’s not just about carrying your tools—it’s about preserving time, memory, and creativity in a tangible way.
So next time you pick up your project bag, take a moment to appreciate it. You’re not just making stitches—you’re continuing a rich tradition, threaded through history with care and craft.
What’s the oldest project bag you own or remember? Share your story in the comments or tag me on Instagram with #MyProjectBagStory—I’d love to see your vintage finds and handmade treasures.