Vintage knits

It’s been ages since there was a knitting related post on my blog, which is ironic considering my blog title.  I lost my knitting mojo after Christmas, I usually do around that time of year, I blame the frantic Christmas knitting.  I got two new knitting books at Christmas though and decided it was time I actually starting knitting something from one.  The books are A Stitch in time, volumes 1 and 2 and both are absolutely stunning.  Volume 1 had been on my Amazon wish list for a long time, book 2 came out just last autumn, so I used some Christmas money to finally get my hands on both.

These are just the kind of books I love, they sit in that delightful place between reference and practical.  There is enough history and information to satisfy an ex-design history student such as me, but the patterns are just wonderful for the everyday knitter too.  The volumes divide patterns into two overlapping eras, volume 1 covers 1920-1949 and volume 2 covers 1930-1959.

I’ve picked out a couple of my favourites to share with you, one from each book, and a sneak preview of my first project from volume 1.  (Excuse the interesting photo shots, I’m trying to include as much of the wonderful artwork as possible without including too much of the patterns themselves!)

From Volume 1 – Tea Garden Dress

This is a beautiful dress, knitted in Rowan Scottish Tweed 4ply (now discontinued unfortunately).  This piece would be fairly pricey to knit up but I think it’s worth it for such a wonderful dress.  This pattern is from the ‘Square Look’ section of the book which includes patterns from 1940-1949.

I love the pocket and button details and the peter pan collar is just adorable.

Volume 2 – Lady’s Evening Jumper

I absolutely adore the lace pattern on this jumper.  Knitted in luxurious Fibrespates Scrumptious Lace, this jumper will be a delight to knit and wear.  Again, this pattern is from the 1940′s section of the book.

Current project – Sun-ray ribbing

Here is my current project, a rib pattern jumper, knitted in Rowan Cashsoft 4ply.  I opted for a lovely green shade with a brilliant name – shade 459, Toxic.  This pattern is from the ‘Fitted, tailored look’ section including patterns from 1935-37.  And if you think that lovely lady looks familiar it’s because the beautiful Fleur de Guerre is modelling the jumper.

I love the fact that all the patterns featured include the original pattern, complete with wonderful photos and illustrations.

The note across the picture on this one suggests other colour substitutions and contrasting button colours to use.  All in wonderful vintage colours of course!

I would highly recommend both of these books, even if you have no intention of knitting anything from them, just pour over the pages and delight at all the wonderful knitting history contained within.  There is also a Ravelry group dedicated to the books which you can find here, and you can see my current Ravelry project, the Sun-Ray ribbing top here.