The 1940s were the golden years of knitting, it had been during these years that a number of knitting suppliers released magazines and leaflets documenting the gorgeous patterns and designs which were in fashion in those days. The fad little by little diminished only to be revived again in the present day. Classic designs in knitting has been in fashion recently because of the feeling that emanates from these. Classic designs in wool knitting has returned again, increasing numbers of people are attempting to uncover the patterns and knitting methods that made the divas so well liked in movies of yore.
Choosing Your Pattern There are a number of ways of getting retro patterns but it is certainly not as easy as it appears as many of them did not survive over time. The easiest way to uncover these patterns is if you knew somebody who used to knit in the 40s and 50s. It is likely they’re going to have a bunch of designs from that time that you can have a good look through. If you are not this fortuitous then there are a handful of resources on the internet where you may be able to discover some great retro designs. Alternatively if you are not able to find what you’re trying to find you could check out your library or an antique book store, you never know your luck.
Studying the Pattern When you initially examine a vintage knitting pattern you may be surprised as to precisely how different it appears from a modern knitting pattern. You should double check the sizes to ensure that you get the correct size. Also take into account such things as the needles to work with, it is likely to use the old UK sizes which you will have to translate into contemporary sizes. There may also be additional phrases to translate plus it could be worth writing the modifications on the pattern to help you stick to it more easily.
There are a number of ways you can learn about the modifications in terminology. Such as you could ask a parent or grandparent who may have gone through the changes. You might like to look for a number of explanations online and there could also be publications available that will explain just how to translate a vintage knitting pattern.
Beginning Work Once you get yourself all the ammunition, the time has come to test your knitting skills. It is crucial to think about the context in which the outfits are knitted. In 1930s, body sizes were different and so were the associated garments. Nowadays, care should be taken to make outfits appropriate yet, aesthetically vintage. Alter the measurements slightly but take care not to deviate from the authentic pattern.
The final issue that you may want to consider will be the yarn you use to create the garment. It is likely that the yarn in the pattern is no longer made so you will need to take care and be sure you find a yarn that is a equivalent tension to that in the pattern. With this you’ll have everything you need to make the perfect vintage garment.
The Knitting Shop is a brilliant place to get a wide choice of knitting yarn and this article has been supplied by Mercedes Aspland
