You might think that a timeless craft like knitting hasn’t changed very much over the years, but in many ways it has evolved just like any other art form. Vintage Baby Knits. More than 40 Heirloom Patterns from the 1920’s to the 1950’s is a beautiful new book by knitter, designer, and vintage enthusiast Kristen Rengren that explores knitting trends and the overall popularity of the craft throughout the Great Depression and World War II.   During this period, many women pursued knitting not only as a hobby, but also as a way to clothe their families inexpensively and help in the war effort. 

It’s a pleasant surprise to find more than just knitting patterns and techniques in this book. The author takes great care to explain the dynamics of knitting throughout each decade that she covers, providing interesting mini history lessons along with informative, easy to use patterns. 

Each pattern is prefaced with a short introduction discussing a little of its history, as well as design considerations the author took into account while she developed the patterns. There is also a full page write up for every decade from the 1920’s to the 1950’s discussing how historical events influenced the craft. These bits of information make the book not only a great resource for vintage designs, but for knitting history in general.

Intermediate to advanced knitters will knit these patterns with ease, but all knitting or vintage enthusiasts will no doubt find enjoyment within its pages. The quality of the binding, the paper, and photography also make for a gorgeous book that captivates readers with its style.

The Patterns:

The main element that defines these patterns is the smaller gauge of the knitted fabric. This delicate aspect of vintage knitwear is part of what gives it its charm and style. The book explores a wide variety of techniques, including cables, lace, Fair Isle and simple knit/purl designs. All the patterns follow an identical format for ease of reading, and charts and schematics are provided as additional visual aids. The book also includes patterns for knitted stuffed animals and blankets which can make wonderful gifts, as there is no sizing consideration with this type of project.

Overall, there is nothing very complicated with any of these patterns and most should be within the realm of the average knitter, while still being of interest to the very advanced. The only caveat to that would be if you are not used to working with very fine yarns and needles, some of the patterns may pose a challenge. Most patterns use sock or fingering weight yarns and in turn, the needles used are quite fine as well. The largest ones are size 9US (5.5) although most are much smaller with 1US - 4US (2.25mm - 3.75mm) being the most common.

Test Project: Elmer the Elephant

As I have no children of my own, the pattern I chose to test was for one of the Stuffies:  Elmer the Elephant. I love elephants and just could not resist this adorable little pattern. I chose a yarn that I enjoyed the feel of and had similar properties to the one called for in the pattern, and went with Briggs & Little Softspun 2 ply 100% wool. Since 2 ply is thinner than the worsted weight called for in the pattern, I went one size smaller on the needles to keep the tightness of the fabric.

The instructions are very clear and easy to follow.  So far, this is turning out to be a very quick and easy project that I should have complete in another week's time--check back here to see the finished project! I believe the results will be well worth the effort.

These days, we often find ourselves looking for the fastest way to the finish line with quick patterns and chunky yarns. Sometimes it’s worth the labor of love to step back and see where we came from, to take the time to admire finer knit garments, to attempt to recapture some of their effortless charm, and to learn something from all these wonderful vintage  patterns. This book accomplishes these tasks with elegance and grace.

Vintage Baby Knits. More Than 40 Heirloom Patterns from the 1920’s to the 1950’s by Kristen Rengren
ISBN: 978-1-58479-761-6
160 pages, hardcover
Price:  $27.50

Crafter Information

Skill Level:  Intermediate - Advanced Level knitting.
Usability:     Excellent
Notes:          Over 60 full color photographs, plus templates, charts, and resources

Photographs courtesy of Stewart, Tabori & Chang and Sophie Routhier.

Coming Next Week: Q & A with Author Kristen Rengren

Have questions about knitting or vintage patterns? Need suggestions for knitted baby gifts? Leave your question or comment below and visit Just for Fun next Friday, July 24 when author Kristen Rengren returns to answer YOUR questions!

Also, be sure to visit Vintage Baby Knits to follow Kristen along her virtual book tour. Or visit Kristen on her own blog, RetroKnit for more information.

Read the follow up interview with the author!

Knitting Q & A with Kristen Rengren gives you a glimpse into Kristen's inspiration for her beautiful work.  You'll also find out how you can win your own copy of the book!

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