How to match the colours of a crochet bag

On the colours page there are three choices: the colour of the t-shirt yarn, an optional second strand worked together, and the colour of the rim and handle. It doesn't sound like much, but the combinations are endless. Here are three simple ways not to get lost.

Tone on tone

Two close colours: two browns, two blues, a sand and a cream. The bag is calm and elegant, and goes with everything. With two strands worked together you get a full yet lively colour that shows its two sides up close.

When to choose it: for a bag to carry every day, with anything.

Contrasting

Two distant colours that bring each other out: a lime green and a cocoa brown, a blue and an orange. On the colour wheel they sit opposite each other, which is why they make each other glow. With two strands worked together the contrast becomes a speckled texture, cheerful and full of movement.

When to choose it: for a bag that gets noticed, even with a plain outfit.

The rim as a frame

The body in a neutral colour, the rim and handle in a bold one. It's the easiest way to add a touch of colour without overdoing it: the rim traces the shape of the bag, like a frame around a picture.

When to choose it: when you love a strong colour but don't want it everywhere.

A few practical tips

• Neutral colours (sand, cocoa, grey, black) go with everything, and show the dirt less than very pale ones.
• A thread of light: a lamé ribbon worked together with the t-shirt yarn catches the light with every movement, without changing the colour of the bag.
• Think of the clothes you'll wear it with: the colour of your shoes, your coat, the bag you use most.
• Screens are a little deceptive: the colours you see on your phone are only a guide, and the real yarn may look slightly different.

When you like the combination, send it to me with “Ask for this bag”: I'll reply with timing and price. Haven't chosen the shape yet? Read top-handle bag, frame clutch or clutch with handle.