Weldon's Practical Knitter, Vol 1, Series 1-4 eBook

PieceWork magazine is pleased to present this limited edition, exact reproduction (neither alterations nor corrections were made to the original published in the 1800s) of Weldon's Practical Neelework, Volume 1.  This eBook set includes all four of the Volume 1 Series and is a fitting example of needlework and 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 (knitting, patchwork, crochet, 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.

We have reproduced for you here the knitting content from the earliest of these pamphlets. The 148 projects range from charming to simply strange, from lovely edgings and triangular shawls to knee covers and baby knickers. The instructions might perplex a contemporary knitter accustomed to much hand-holding, but the stitch patterns and shapings are often ingenious, and many of the objects transcend the century- plus span of years since they were devised.

This set of pamphlets 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.