Are you in love with Vintage knitting patterns? Want to try them out? Get ready to recreate the classic charms. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to explore vintage knitting patterns and tips to work them out. Get hold of your knitting needles, accessories and yarn to recreate the charming patterns of yesteryears. With changing fashion and style, knitting patterns have evolved but vintage designs hold a special allure. Classic cable designs, intricate lacework, colorwork patterns, use of bold and vibrant shades, or even body-skimming fit, there are many ways to create timeless pieces. Want to get started with vintage charms? Discover old knitting styles with our previous blog.
Popular Vintage Knitting Styles and Patterns
Knitting is centuries old. From being the source of warmth for seafaring sailors to becoming high-end fashion, knitting has come a long way. The 1990s marked a pivotal era as the craft came to the common public with patterns published in newspapers, journals and magazines. Yarn brands offered patterns to work with their products and create garments and accessories.
Another reason that knitting became a necessity as well as a symbol of resilience was during World War II. The scarcity of resources became the reason for people taking up knitting needles, being creative, and repurposing yarn and materials to create warm, functional garments. Women were encouraged to knit for the troops, resulting in practical patterns for socks, scarves, and gloves becoming widespread. However, with changing times knitting became fashionable and garments and accessories became playful designs.
The 1910 and 1920s - Patterns then had a thing for crocheted and knitted yokes, collars, edgings, and lace insertions for clothing. Knitting sweaters for men and women were generally done with single-pointed needles and later assembled.
The 1930s - This decade saw a shift in knitting patterns styled for both fashion and sportswear. Vogue Knitting started sections in their magazines for knitting patterns. There were different options for Travel, The Beach, Skiing, Evening Wear, etc. highlighting the focus on fashion as well as practical knitwear.
The 1940s - Patterns featured fitted silhouettes for tops, cardigans with puffed sleeves, ribbed designs, and lace yokes among women's garments. Men’s knitwear emphasized practicality with simple ribs while cables were believed to be very stylish.
The 1950s- Patterns focused on elegance in everyday wear. Matching sweater and cardigan pairs, scarf and mitten pairs, dresses, skirts and jackets became fashion staples.
The 1960s and 70s: This era was all about experimenting with texture, color, and oversized designs. Patterns often featured chunky yarns, bold stripes, and playful motifs. Ponchos, capes, and oversized turtlenecks were particularly popular. The chunky knits of the time are making a comeback.
Adapting the vintage knitting patterns can be done by working with a classic pattern. The use of lace collars, yokes, frills, ruffles, chevrons and fitted silhouettes can be your modern take.
Tips for Knitting with Vintage Patterns
Vintage knitting patterns have been lovingly restored by many museums, websites and even yarn brands. It is effortless to fall in love with these beauties and attempt to recreate them for yourself, however, there are a few things to understand first. The time was different, patterns assumed that you were on the same page as the designers. The availability of yarns was different. Wool was common, however, there was no standard yarn weights system as followed in today’s time so be ready to experiment.
1. Understand Sizes and Measurement
The sizes and measurements of vintage knitting patterns are very different from today. A S size was a different measurement than today. Before you start with a vintage pattern make sure you have measurements to match with gauge. A gauge swatch is essential to navigate a vintage pattern successfully.
2. Choose the Right Yarn
Vintage patterns often specify yarns that are no longer available. Look for modern equivalents by focusing on yarn weight and fiber content. For example, substitute vintage wool yarns with hand-dyed merino wool for a softer, more colorful result.
3. Understand the Pattern Terminology
Pattern instructions from the past can be written in styles unfamiliar to modern knitters. Take time to review abbreviations and measurements before starting your project.
4. Embrace Modern Tools
Update your knitting experience with modern tools like interchangeable knitting needles and cable needles for better precision and ease of use.
5. Experiment with Colors
While vintage patterns often used muted or solid colors, modern hand-dyed yarns can breathe new life into these designs. Experiment with gradients or speckled yarns for a unique twist.
Where to Find Vintage Patterns
Vintage knitting patterns are making a comeback. Resources like the V&A Museum’s1940s knitting pattern collection are an excellent starting point. Online knitting communities and digital archives also offer a wealth of inspiration. Yarn brands and even knitters and crocheters are restoring vintage patterns from libraries, magazines and leaflets to shop and explore.
Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of the 1950s or the boldness of the 70s, vintage knitting patterns offer endless possibilities. With this handy guide get started with knitting classic designs from yesteryears. Explore KnitPro collection for knitting needles and accessories. For classic materials explore Bamboo, Nova and Basix. For modern adaptation choose Zing or the Mindful Collection for the metal lovers. If you prefer wood, explore Dreamz, Symfonie and Ginger series. Karbonz is a modern material that provides warmth as well as precision.