Finishing date: January 2025. Photographed by Ashley Perl in May 2025
I needed something small to carry things in, for when a backpack is too much. I had some leftover yarn after finishing my embroidered blazer, and tons of wax printed fabrics from West Africa from ten years ago when I used to go there a lot, for research and to visit my mom. And, I needed more uses for all the ribbon I was weaving. Fast forward to: a crocheted purse with a West African fabric lining and a hand-woven shoulder strap. Made to be the exact size for: a paperback book, a small notebook, a phone and some keys.
Ashley came for a visit in the end of May. We had a lovely time. One of the places I took her to was the botanic garden – where we caught the tail end of the Bergen rhododendron blooming season. The perfect opportunity for Ashley to photograph me and my purse among these incredibly luxurious flowers.
Katja Malmborg 