della Q Project Bags & Fiber Tool Totes: What to Choose, How to Use Them, and Where to Buy (Online + Near Chicago)
della Q Project Bags & Fiber Tool Totes: What to Choose, How to Use Them, and Where to Buy (Online + Near Chicago)
If you want a project bag that feels light but works hard—easy to see through, easy to grab, easy to stay organized—della Q has become a go-to for knitters, crocheters, and fiber artists who travel with their WIPs. This guide breaks down how to pick the right style and size, how makers actually use them day-to-day, and how to shop our curated selection at AriYARN.
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Quick answers (at a glance)
Most makers don’t need “the perfect bag.” They need a bag that actually gets used—the one that keeps your yarn clean, your tools easy to find, and your project safe when life gets busy.
Why makers love della Q
della Q bags have a reputation for being practical in the best way. They’re designed for makers who want their projects to move with them— from couch to car, from the coffee shop to knit night, from “I have 10 minutes” to “okay, I’m really doing this.”
What we see in-store (and what our regulars tell us) is simple: a great project bag doesn’t just hold yarn. It reduces friction. When your tools are where you expect, your yarn stays tidy, and your pattern doesn’t vanish into the void, you stitch more often—and enjoy it more.
- Visibility: Can you see what project is inside at a glance?
- Closure: Does it close fast (and stay closed) when you toss it in a tote?
- Tool control: Is there a place for your needle/hook, markers, and notions?
- Yarn friendliness: Will your yarn snag, shed, or get fuzzy from friction?
- Real-life size: Does it fit the project you actually make (not the idealized one)?
How to choose the right project bag
1) Match the bag to your project stage
A sock-in-progress is not the same as a cardigan-in-progress. A great rule of thumb is to choose a bag based on the “bulkiest moment” your project will reach. If you’re knitting a sweater, you’ll eventually have multiple sections plus working yarn. If you’re crocheting a blanket, your project grows in every direction.
- Small projects: socks, hats, mitts, swatches, granny squares
- Medium projects: shawls, scarves, baby items, small tops
- Large projects: sweaters, blankets, multi-skein colorwork
2) Decide: “see-through” vs “structured”
Many della Q favorites lean into visibility—transparent or mesh styles help you see your WIP instantly, which is underrated if you juggle multiple projects. If you’re a “one project at a time” maker, you might prioritize structure and pockets.
3) Plan for tools (not just yarn)
Tools are the difference between “I can stitch right now” and “I’ll do it later.” Think about what you truly carry: stitch markers, a needle gauge, tapestry needle, measuring tape, scissors/snips, a highlighter, a pencil, pattern pages, or your phone stand. Choose a bag that gives those items a home.
della Q styles we carry (shown in-store)
Below are a few della Q bag styles you’ll see in our shop rotation. Because colors and sizes change frequently, treat this as a “how it works” guide, then confirm what’s available on Shop our online store.
Oh Snap project bags (transparent / mesh, quick access)
The Oh Snap style is popular for a reason: it’s fast to open, easy to see through, and maker-friendly when you’re moving between rooms (or running out the door). Many knitters use these as their dedicated “active project” bag—the one that stays closest to the needles.
- Colorwork helpers: keep contrast color + markers together so you don’t mix them up
- Travel knitting: a secure close reduces yarn escapes in your tote/backseat
- WIP rotation: see what’s inside instantly—no “mystery bags”
Maker’s Mesh Tote (lightweight storage with grab-and-go vibes)
A mesh tote is a maker’s workhorse. It’s great when you want airflow, visibility, and space for your project plus extras—like a notebook, your water bottle, or a second skein. Many crocheters love a tote because it can handle larger, fluffier builds without feeling overstuffed.
Pocket-forward project bags (for the “organized maker brain”)
If you’re the kind of maker who carries everything (and actually uses it), pockets are your friend. A pocketed project bag is especially helpful for classes, where you want your kit to stay together from week to week.
How to pack a “grab-and-go” knitting or crochet kit
Here’s the simple system we teach new knitters and crocheters all the time: build a kit that can leave the house in 30 seconds. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency.
The 8-piece kit that covers 95% of real life
- Your WIP + working yarn (include one extra skein if you’re close to the end)
- Your active needles/hooks + a spare needle tip/hook size if you own it
- Stitch markers (a few locking + a few ring style)
- Tape measure (for “is this long enough yet?”)
- Tapestry needle (for weaving ends… someday 😅)
- Small snips (or a travel-safe alternative)
- Pattern access (printed, notebook, or phone/tablet)
- A tiny notions pouch so the small things don’t migrate
Transparent and mesh bags shine here because you can do a quick visual check before you leave. If you can see your markers and tapestry needle, you’re good.
Care, cleaning & longevity
Your project bag gets used the most when it’s easy to maintain. A few small habits keep your bag (and your yarn) looking fresh:
- Shake it out after each finished project—bits of fiber and crumbs love corners.
- Keep wet items separate (water bottle condensation counts).
- Store dark ink away from light fabrics or pale yarn.
- Use a mini pouch for markers and needles so they don’t scratch transparent panels.
If you’re unsure what’s best for a specific bag material, stop by and we’ll help you choose a care approach that won’t risk your bag—or your yarn. You can always contact us for help / holds if you want to confirm an item before you purchase.
Gift ideas (and who it’s perfect for)
della Q bags are one of our favorite “it will definitely get used” gifts. They’re practical, colorful, and immediately helpful—whether someone is a brand-new knitter or a long-time crocheter with multiple WIPs in flight.
- New knitter: a small visible project bag + stitch markers + a tape measure
- Crochet lover: a roomy tote for larger projects + a notions pouch
- Travel stitcher: a secure-close bag that protects yarn in a carry-on or backpack
- Organizer personality: a pocket-forward bag that keeps tools “in their place”
If you’re shopping for someone else and you’re not sure what they make, the best gift is the one that fits their lifestyle: “stitches on the go” usually means a secure-close project bag, while “stitches at home” often means a tote that lives next to the favorite chair.
Where to buy della Q: AriYARN (online + Park Ridge near Chicago)
You can shop della Q with us in two easy ways:
- Online: browse what’s currently available on Shop our online store.
- In person: visit AriYARN Shop & Studio at 153 N Northwest Hwy, Park Ridge, IL 60068 (convenient to Chicago and near O’Hare).
What to look for when you’re shopping online
When you’re choosing a project bag online, don’t just look at the prettiest photo—ask the practical questions: How does it close? Can I see inside? Is there room for my project as it grows? That’s the difference between “cute” and “I use it constantly.”
If you tell us these 3 things, we can recommend a great match
1) What you’re making (sock, shawl, sweater, blanket) • 2) Whether you stitch at home or on-the-go • 3) Whether you prefer pockets or visibility.
Classes + Thursday Stitch Night (5–7 PM)
The best project bag is the one that helps you show up—whether that’s for a class, a personal goal, or a community night where you finally finish a WIP. If you’re learning something new or returning after a break, we’ve got options.
- Workshops & classes: build skills step-by-step and keep your tools organized from week to week. See workshops & classes.
- Thursday Stitch N’ Craft Night (5–7 PM): bring any knitting, crochet, or fiber project—beginner to advanced. A lightweight bag that keeps your essentials together makes the night even more relaxing.
FAQ
Which della Q bag is best for socks or hats?
Choose a smaller project bag that closes securely and keeps your yarn from escaping. If you like seeing your WIP at a glance, a transparent or mesh option is ideal. Check Shop our online store for what’s in stock right now.
Should I size up for a shawl or sweater?
Yes—projects grow. If you’re between sizes, go one size larger so you have room for your fabric, a second skein, and your tools without cramming.
Are mesh or transparent bags good for travel?
They’re great for visibility and quick access. For travel, prioritize a bag with a secure closure and consider using a small inner pouch for sharp or tiny notions so nothing scratches panels or gets lost.
Can you help me pick the right bag for a class?
Absolutely. Tell us what class you’re taking and what supplies you’re bringing, and we’ll recommend a size and style that keeps everything together. Start here: Contact us for help / holds.
Do you sell these online and in-store?
Yes. You can browse current availability online via Shop our online store, or visit us in Park Ridge near Chicago & O’Hare.
Can I bring my project bag to Thursday Stitch Night?
Please do! Thursday Stitch N’ Craft Night runs 5–7 PM and is open to knitters, crocheters, and fiber artists of all skill levels. A grab-and-go project bag makes it easy to participate even when you’re coming straight from work or errands.
Ready to pick your della Q bag?
Start by choosing your project type (small / medium / large), then decide whether you want visibility (mesh/transparent) or pockets and structure. When you’re ready, shop our online store, browse our upcoming learning options on see workshops & classes, or contact us for help / holds.
