Weldon's Practical Knitter Series 12 eBook

Discover Vintage Knitting Patterns for Ladies, Gentlemen, and Children

PieceWork magazine is pleased to present this exact reproduction (neither alterations nor corrections were made to the original published in the 1800s) from Weldon's Practical Needlework, Volume 5.

We have reproduced for you here the knitting material from the Twelfth Series. The 21 patterns range from simple to ornate and include sweet Bo-Peep Boots for baby; an amazing Beaded Collarette with matching beaded cuffs; stylish men's socks in the Scotch Plaid pattern; beaded trimming for a dress--"a pretty and economical fashion that just now is very much in vogue"; a beribboned Baby's Spencer in Pettifer Pattern; Gentlemen's Drawers made with fingering-weight wool "suitable for spring and autumn"; and the very interesting, extra-large Egg Cosy, Fluted Pattern. The instructions might perplex a contemporary knitter accustomed to detailed charts and succinct directions, but the patterns are often ingenious, and many of the objects transcend the century-plus span of years since they were devised.

It is a fitting example of needlework and knitting history, hand in hand. This electronic pattern book opens a window on another time and another place. The time is the turn of the twentieth century and the place is London, England. Needleworkers of that era would be amazed to see their favorite knitting patterns in a virtual format of which they could never have dreamed.

In an effort to bring needlework to the emerging middle class, Weldon's, a paper pattern producer of the Victorian era, began to publish monthly newsletters devoted to various crafts (beading, knitting, crochet, patchwork, and the like). These newsletters were typically 14 pages and cost 2 pence. Later, they were collected into book form, titled Weldon's Practical Needlework.

This eBook serves as a curiosity, an inspiration, a resource, and a link to a time beyond our memories. In using and enjoying it, you keep the craft alive.