tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5452062424010884842024-03-13T19:32:27.995+00:00Theodora Goes WildTheodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-31174836371464698522016-02-18T09:04:00.000+00:002016-02-18T09:04:24.944+00:00The Knit List - a fantasy wish listIt's about time I did a Knit List - whittling down hundreds of my patterns to just ten of my must-knits. Ten? Impossible. I'll do fifty. More achievable (though not all in one post, of course!).<br />
<br />
I've got so many patterns going round in my head, they are getting tangled up in there. It's not a very tidy, organised place my head. Neither are my patterns for that matter. Which is why I need to get down my wish list of knits - the knitteds that I just HAVE to make - so I can easily reference them in a calm and unemotional way. Not in the usual, frantic, just-seen-a-jumper, scrabble-about-for-enough-wool, don't-bother-with-a-tension-swatch and just-dive-in kind of way, which is how I seem to approach pattern choice.<br />
<br />
I'm going to have to do a top fifty, because I just can't whittle it down any further. I will spread it over a good few blog posts. although I probably have nearer to one hundred that I just NEED to knit, but who's got that kind of time? Or wool? (Well, I probably have enough of that).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZzi5Tkqq9Q/VbIT6Q2DgTI/AAAAAAAAaLM/ZrQ5TgBNLYc/s1600/_20150724_102417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZzi5Tkqq9Q/VbIT6Q2DgTI/AAAAAAAAaLM/ZrQ5TgBNLYc/s400/_20150724_102417.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I will begin with Good Needlework magazine, as it is one of the best magazines from the glory years of the 1930s for knitwear design. Not only were the patterns shown in full colour, (often super bright colours), but the patterns often gave alternative colour schemes for the designs - right down to the shade of stockings!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ULqSnFJ7xoM/Vr22wnpvDyI/AAAAAAAAfvI/ZN5etMTZ2NA/s1600/GoodNeedlework_1933_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ULqSnFJ7xoM/Vr22wnpvDyI/AAAAAAAAfvI/ZN5etMTZ2NA/s400/GoodNeedlework_1933_Cover.jpg" width="293" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Needlework 1933</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZufUw2CAjI/Vr22CCC-gRI/AAAAAAAAfu8/Q4mzJMEO2rI/s1600/GoodNeedlework_1933_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZufUw2CAjI/Vr22CCC-gRI/AAAAAAAAfu8/Q4mzJMEO2rI/s320/GoodNeedlework_1933_1.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1933<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
This is a design in 2 ply, with a very interesting shape. It is in 'bluebell' stitch, little clusters of lace. The garter stitch yoke is most unusual, but the deciding factor is the cap to match! I always try to have a hat to match a favourite vintage jumper.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49jNbA9O7EM/Vr22VZx821I/AAAAAAAAfvA/FdMmpsBauqM/s1600/GoodNeedlework_1933_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49jNbA9O7EM/Vr22VZx821I/AAAAAAAAfvA/FdMmpsBauqM/s320/GoodNeedlework_1933_2.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1933<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
This jumper is from the same issue, but too good to miss out. In the famous feather and fan pattern, it has similarities with a jumper featured in A Stitch in Time Vol 1, which you can see on the cover of Good Needlework 1937, below. This one is in 4 ply, and has drop sleeves, as the back and front are knitted straight without armhole shaping. </div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QBnr_BCV7w/Vr26SsvWzHI/AAAAAAAAfvg/r6QP8HVt97U/s1600/A_Touch_of_White_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QBnr_BCV7w/Vr26SsvWzHI/AAAAAAAAfvg/r6QP8HVt97U/s400/A_Touch_of_White_Cover.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Needlework 1936</div>
<br />
This butter yellow jumper has been in my 'queue' since I first saw this magazine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NBYspzFUMCA/Vr26ICjh21I/AAAAAAAAfvg/K3WaN5iGGbk/s1600/GoodNeedlework_Sept1936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NBYspzFUMCA/Vr26ICjh21I/AAAAAAAAfvg/K3WaN5iGGbk/s320/GoodNeedlework_Sept1936.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1936</div>
<br />
It ticks all the boxes for me. It is lightweight, in 3 ply, but knit loosely so fewer stitches are needed! Hoorah. I love the look and feel of fine knitting, but I also want it off the needles as quickly as possible. The softly pleated jabot is the finishing touch. And, if that's not enough, you have the option of long sleeves if you are a 'chilly mortal'.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>'What colour scheme will you choose?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Butter-yellow with white jabot</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Matching yellow, Angora woolen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Brown and white court-shoes and sun-beige stockings.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Cabbage-green with a matching jabot.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Sand-beige woollen, cut on the cross.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. A wide beige belt and beige suede sandals.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Oyster-grey with lobster-pink jabot.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Matching grey, novelty woollen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Grey coat, hat and handbag, matching pink gloves.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Navy-blue with chamois-yellow jabot.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Navy-blue mixture tweed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. A chamois-yellow belt. Navy-blue and yellow bracelets.<br />
<i>(copied from the magazine itself)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_62OnJcIf48/Vr29rP0PYtI/AAAAAAAAfv8/sPdiTb4E1f0/s1600/GoodNeedlework_19360007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_62OnJcIf48/Vr29rP0PYtI/AAAAAAAAfv8/sPdiTb4E1f0/s400/GoodNeedlework_19360007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Needlework 1936</div>
<br />
This is another invaluable long-sleeved jumper, but with a deep cowl neckline, using 2 ply wool, in a lacy, bobbly rib. The buttoned cuffs are a nice touch. And belted jumpers are just so chic.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Three Good Colour-Schemes</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Chalk-white. Black buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Fine black basket-weave woollen. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Narrow back kid belt. Black kid shoes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Aquamarine-green. Brown buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Cinnamon-brown woollen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Plaited brown suede belt. Brown suede Oxfordettes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Melon-pink. Navy-blue buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Navy-blue tweed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Navy-blue calf shoes. Wide navy-blue belt.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(copied from the magazine itself)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-naIG4EDCtLk/Vr2-5vDn2CI/AAAAAAAAfxE/xYCStcO2glQ/s1600/GoodNeedlework_May1937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-naIG4EDCtLk/Vr2-5vDn2CI/AAAAAAAAfxE/xYCStcO2glQ/s400/GoodNeedlework_May1937.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Needlework 1937</div>
<br />
I couldn't decide between these two (below), so they both made the cut. The one on the left (above) found it's way into A Stitch in Time Vol 1, so I've already made that.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l2q0fIYZNFM/Vr2_RvqB03I/AAAAAAAAfv4/yg9NvQKgaqM/s1600/GoodNeedlework_May1937_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l2q0fIYZNFM/Vr2_RvqB03I/AAAAAAAAfv4/yg9NvQKgaqM/s320/GoodNeedlework_May1937_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1937</div>
<br />
Both in 3 ply, the first has wide cables paired with a ribbed yoke, just right to wear with a 'light spring suit'.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No.1</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Buttercup-yellow. Amber-brown buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Linen-tweed, to match.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Brown kid sandals. Yellow linen hat with brown Petersham ribbon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No.2</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Royal purple. Square glass buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Eggshell-beige wool-crepe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Beige linen shoes. Matching beige felt hat. Beige gloves. Purple handbag.</div>
<br />
The second jumper (right), has the 'New Square-Neck, quite perfect for cruising'. Knitted in a lozenge-like pattern, this issue has outdone itself with suggestions for five different colour combinations.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No.1</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Pale ash-grey. Jade green buttons,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Matching grey waffle woollen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. A wide jade-green belt. Grey reptile shoes and handbag. Grey hat. Jade-green gloves.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No.3</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Bright parrot-green. Matching green buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Ivory-white linen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Green and white kid sandals. Green, white and orange bracelets. 'Cannes' beige stockings.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No.4</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Rust-brown. Brown wooden buttons,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Matching brown woollen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Coral-pink belt and scarf. Brown kid shoes. Brown hat with coral trimming.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No. 5</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Misty navy-blue. White 'daisy' buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Navy, red and white checked woollen.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Checked jacket, to match the skirt. Navy-blue shoes. Navy-blue hat with red and white trimming.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(copied from the magazine itself)</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUDbvYjmoLM/Vr2_BeD2r3I/AAAAAAAAfxE/hVjZ5vgV5XU/s1600/GoodNeedlework_April1938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUDbvYjmoLM/Vr2_BeD2r3I/AAAAAAAAfxE/hVjZ5vgV5XU/s400/GoodNeedlework_April1938.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Needlework 1938</div>
<br />
The last jumper from the Good Needlework series is from 1938. The cut-outs at the neckline were too much to resist. Teamed with leaf-patterned lace and ribbing, what's not to love?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No.1</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Bois-de-Rose Pink.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Fine woollen, to tone, mottled with black.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Black patent-leather court shoes. Pink hat, black gloves and handbag.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Colour-Scheme No.2</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jumper. Aquamarine Green.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skirt. Dark Ox-blood red marocain.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Accessories. Matching red suede sandals, belt and pochette. Aquamarine hat with red ribbon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(copied from the magazine itself)</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Seven down, forty-three to go! Jumper Jill is in four of the seven so far. I wonder how she will fare in the rest? And did women ever wear trousers?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Theodora.</div>
Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-81006360407218451932016-01-29T19:12:00.001+00:002016-01-29T19:12:34.848+00:00Free Pattern Friday - Golden Eagle Lady's JumperA really classic knitting pattern this month, a solid 1940s number with a sweet two-colour design and shaped rib. It even has two little pockets to add further interest.<br />
<br />
Using 3 ply wool, 3 ozs in each of two shades, one light and one dark. For long sleeves, 4 ozs of each.<br />
<br />
For a bust size of 34 - 36 inches.<br />
<br />
Needles used are 2.75mm and 3.25mm.<br />
<br />
If I didn't have such an aversion to colourwork it would go on The List. I think the longer I leave it, fair isle. that is, the harder it will be to tackle it again. It looks so lovely though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKUKf_0Hst8/VqiVA04GuzI/AAAAAAAAfWE/Mh0QsKSt_ro/s1600/GoldenEagle_Ladies_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKUKf_0Hst8/VqiVA04GuzI/AAAAAAAAfWE/Mh0QsKSt_ro/s640/GoldenEagle_Ladies_Cover.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-20HIFpH-nX0/VqiUsQSiicI/AAAAAAAAfVs/JM33o-ZIwK8/s1600/GoldenEagle_Ladies_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-20HIFpH-nX0/VqiUsQSiicI/AAAAAAAAfVs/JM33o-ZIwK8/s640/GoldenEagle_Ladies_1.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FGESLitm08Q/VqiUsymqAUI/AAAAAAAAfV8/-i5lZmEUfEk/s1600/GoldenEagle_Ladies_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FGESLitm08Q/VqiUsymqAUI/AAAAAAAAfV8/-i5lZmEUfEk/s640/GoldenEagle_Ladies_2.jpg" width="474" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0hIfqj5-M3g/VqiUtH8GXMI/AAAAAAAAfWA/gAUPuNdN7HQ/s1600/GoldenEagle_Ladies_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0hIfqj5-M3g/VqiUtH8GXMI/AAAAAAAAfWA/gAUPuNdN7HQ/s640/GoldenEagle_Ladies_3.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-56772523625896563962016-01-08T11:00:00.000+00:002016-01-08T11:00:37.433+00:00New Year - New Knit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A new vintage knit, from the May 1935 edition of Stitchcraft. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Called Square Yoke, Flared Sleeves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wAcLXw_P5UM/Vo-GohZYk4I/AAAAAAAAfEk/geVxaZ9mNCk/s1600/IMG_0856.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wAcLXw_P5UM/Vo-GohZYk4I/AAAAAAAAfEk/geVxaZ9mNCk/s400/IMG_0856.CR2" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I was so eager to photograph it I took a pic before sewing on the buttons.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zBPks1nHbx8/Vo-InfGy5-I/AAAAAAAAfFA/FLCQazpnhCM/s1600/IMG_0870.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zBPks1nHbx8/Vo-InfGy5-I/AAAAAAAAfFA/FLCQazpnhCM/s400/IMG_0870.CR2" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I went for simple mother of pearl ones.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KdM_huW_IuM/Vo-KZRhb3AI/AAAAAAAAfFU/Ebp5V15693Y/s1600/IMG_20151218_112237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KdM_huW_IuM/Vo-KZRhb3AI/AAAAAAAAfFU/Ebp5V15693Y/s320/IMG_20151218_112237.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The wool used for the original was Paton's Super Brindle, which I had never heard of before. It was a little tricky to work out how to substitute. The needles used were 3mm, 3.25mm, 3.75mm and 4 mm. Tension required was one pattern repeat (9 sts), to 1.5 inches. It didn't <i>look</i> like a dk wool in the photograph, but more like a 4 ply. I did my tension swatch with Jamieson & Smith's 2 ply jumper wool, which I find knits to a true vintage 4 ply. It worked well, so I cast on and got going.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GiIXz2uUQzU/Vo-Gy8iqdPI/AAAAAAAAfE0/KlYtsF_55I0/s1600/IMG_0847.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GiIXz2uUQzU/Vo-Gy8iqdPI/AAAAAAAAfE0/KlYtsF_55I0/s400/IMG_0847.CR2" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It knit up pretty quickly, and was a simple, but still interesting enough pattern to keep me from getting bored. It was knitted straight without any armhole shaping, the yoke left on a holder and worked after shoulders were joined. The sleeves are sewn on flat before any other sewing up is done. Lots of steam and pressing, especially the lace part of the sleeves, to get that flare. The only really annoying part was the decreasing on the yoke, which is not symmetrical. (The reason the buttons were added?)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AFisY8RCxOU/Vo-GvXaFA7I/AAAAAAAAfEs/N5K1aqV6CY0/s1600/IMG_0861.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AFisY8RCxOU/Vo-GvXaFA7I/AAAAAAAAfEs/N5K1aqV6CY0/s400/IMG_0861.CR2" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
As you may have noticed, I took these photos myself, in the mirror, so they leave a lot to be desired.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uEMlCkR0XFI/Vo-Ip8RH81I/AAAAAAAAfFI/BIgvN4w9mW8/s1600/IMG_0873.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uEMlCkR0XFI/Vo-Ip8RH81I/AAAAAAAAfFI/BIgvN4w9mW8/s400/IMG_0873.CR2" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I have realised another reason I love to knit these vintage jumpers is the detective work that goes into it. Trying to find the perfect yarn, the perfect tension, the perfect length. Mine has turned out shorter than the original, but it sits on my natural waist, so it is fine. I think it is actually a teensy bit snug, and that is because I didn't go up to the 4mm needles, but stuck with the 3.75mm ones, as these are what gave me the correct tension. That would explain why I only needed 6 ounces! Still, better than horribly baggy.<br />
<br />
Theodora.<br />
<br />Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-40365258431499349002015-11-27T10:29:00.000+00:002015-11-27T10:29:24.218+00:00Free Pattern (Black) Friday<div>
The free pattern this month is from 'Easy Stitch Jumpers', a small sized magazine that was originally a free giveaway with My Weekly magazine. It looks to be mid 1930s.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c-JoV2azMAg/VlWUwjoQieI/AAAAAAAAeRc/yI6i4_TM1kM/s1600/Easy_Stitch_Jumpers_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c-JoV2azMAg/VlWUwjoQieI/AAAAAAAAeRc/yI6i4_TM1kM/s400/Easy_Stitch_Jumpers_Cover.jpg" width="277" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This pattern is knitted in K1, P1 rib and moss stitch, it has a pretty contrast collar and cuffs, with little ties. The colour suggestions are rather fun: primrose and brown, or 'Margaret Rose' (which must mean a pink shade) and brown. Or the safe choice of navy and white, or scarlet and white.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Worked in 3 ply wool, with a tension of 7 stitches and 9.5 rows to an inch. Instructions are for long or short sleeves.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z65iwRlmdyc/VlWP3iKrW4I/AAAAAAAAeRM/-eygtVY2OAA/s1600/Chic_Jumper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z65iwRlmdyc/VlWP3iKrW4I/AAAAAAAAeRM/-eygtVY2OAA/s640/Chic_Jumper.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We celebrated Thanksgiving yesterday, as my husband is American. Turkey and all the trimmings. My husband even baked a pumpkin pie. It was lovely.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-24663772305012483352015-11-13T10:44:00.000+00:002015-11-13T10:44:22.153+00:00Joan Crawford - Design For A Silk JacketI am very pleased to report that my design for the Joan Crawford jacket has been reformatted and is back up on both <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/joan-crawford" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Ravelry</a><b> </b>and on <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/255944426/joan-crawford-a-silk-jacket-to-knit-pdf" target="_blank">Etsy</a>.</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OtgsEAjN1u4/VkRkv1Q0egI/AAAAAAAAeGY/XLnMIayBpuM/s1600/joan_crawford_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OtgsEAjN1u4/VkRkv1Q0egI/AAAAAAAAeGY/XLnMIayBpuM/s640/joan_crawford_2.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Alastair McAskill</div>
<br />
This is a design I came up with while shooting the photographs for <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/A_Stitch_in_Time_Volume_1.html" target="_blank">A Stitch in Time Volume 1</a> with <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/Home.html" target="_blank">Susan Crawford</a>. It was heavily inspired by the silver screen glamour of the 1930s, and, in particular, the style of Joan Crawford. Her character 'Crystal' in 'The Women' was influential, along with her off-screen style throughout the 1930s. The yarn choice was easy. Pure silk. For the drape as much as for the indulgence.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QcuGkYNrO4s/VkRk1Ov-y8I/AAAAAAAAeGo/k0gdUnMuQiY/s1600/joan_crawford-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QcuGkYNrO4s/VkRk1Ov-y8I/AAAAAAAAeGo/k0gdUnMuQiY/s640/joan_crawford-1.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Alastair McAskill</div>
<br />
I wanted to create a very feminine, but not too fussy jacket, but I also really wanted to incorporate a peplum into the design. So I decided to keep the main body in stocking stitch so as not to detract from the design details. I didn't want the peplum to taper at the back, I wanted it to be quite short and flippy, with a slightly raised waistline.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HQKmXzukk1I/U6MBVDCIixI/AAAAAAAAKJ4/LBxprAAxTFk/s1600/joan_crawford_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HQKmXzukk1I/U6MBVDCIixI/AAAAAAAAKJ4/LBxprAAxTFk/s640/joan_crawford_3.jpg" width="419" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Alastair McAskill</div>
<br />
The decreases in the peplum became design features when spaced evenly and the picot edging adds interest to the hem. And I cannot resist a good bow, so that took centre stage on the petersham ribbon belt.<br />
<br />
The shawl collar I kept quite small and neat, knit in one piece and tapered at the ends, so that it would tie gently in front.<br />
<br />
I couldn't stick just to stocking stitch, it was just a tad too dull, so I introduced moss stitch with the bow, sleeve cuffs, shawl collar and the front bands. I decided to omit buttons altogether instead using press studs, as I knew they would draw the focus away from the shape of the garment, and the discreet design features. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7we66xvO8ys/VkRk1BHj0nI/AAAAAAAAeGk/PW5cAkty7C0/s1600/joan_crawford_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7we66xvO8ys/VkRk1BHj0nI/AAAAAAAAeGk/PW5cAkty7C0/s400/joan_crawford_4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Alastair McAskill</div>
<br />
And the sleeves? They had to be full and feminine, with a slight gather at the shoulder. Three quarter-length seemed just right. They are knit from the top down.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qTmyE463Oa4/VkRoKPzYYaI/AAAAAAAAeHY/rEO7iK-wISI/s1600/joancrawford1b_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qTmyE463Oa4/VkRoKPzYYaI/AAAAAAAAeHY/rEO7iK-wISI/s640/joancrawford1b_medium2.jpg" width="506" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Susan Crawford<br />
<br /></div>
This design was first featured in the Glamour issue of knitonthenet (along with <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/a-posy-of-violets" target="_blank">A Posy of Violets</a>). It was Susan's first website, before she established <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/Home.html" target="_blank">Susan Crawford Vintage</a>, and it showcased lots of independent designers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JMZsa2fF1Nc/VkRoJlO8NxI/AAAAAAAAeHU/rCG5BEhkAok/s1600/joancrawford2b_medium3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JMZsa2fF1Nc/VkRoJlO8NxI/AAAAAAAAeHU/rCG5BEhkAok/s640/joancrawford2b_medium3.jpg" width="506" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Susan Crawford</div>
<br />
I have to say a huge thank you to Susan Crawford for encouraging me to release this pattern, and for the multi-sizing she did for it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMHnfQasBQM/VkRk1lG87RI/AAAAAAAAeG0/OeVSRMISWgY/s1600/joan_crawford_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMHnfQasBQM/VkRk1lG87RI/AAAAAAAAeG0/OeVSRMISWgY/s400/joan_crawford_7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Susan Crawford</div>
<br />
Here's a bit more info on the pattern:<br />
<br />
<b>Materials</b><br />
1500 metres of 4 ply in either silk, a silk mix, or cotton.<br />
1 pair 3.5mm US 4 needles<br />
1 pair 3.75mm US 5 needles<br />
Length of petersham ribbon<br />
8 press studs<br />
<br />
The silk used above is discontinued now, but the red silk I bought is available from <a href="http://www.knitshop.co.uk/mulberry-silk-twist/856-red-plied-silk.html" target="_blank">Knitshop</a>. I have seen it done in other yarns too, (see version on this <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/TinaLC/joan-crawford" target="_blank">Ravelry page</a>), which looks wonderful. I would also love to see how it looks in a silk and alpaca mix. Or bamboo. The drape would be lovely.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>Sizes</b><br />
34 (36, 38, 40, 42) inches<br />
<br />
<b>Actual bust measurement</b><br />
36 (38, 40, 42, 44) inches<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>Tension</b><br />
23 sts and 32 rows to 10cm/4 inches measured over stocking stitch with 3.5mm needles.<br />
<br />
I hope you like it, as I can still remember throwing it across the room on two separate occasions while it was still on the needles. Ah, the design process...<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-35865412524898463612015-10-30T08:31:00.001+00:002015-10-30T08:31:09.732+00:00Free Pattern Friday - One to knit and one to crochetIt's half term this week, so I've been out and about with the children. Play dates, shopping, playing board games. It's been fun, but there has been very little time for knitting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3TmXPaxSFQg/VjMbQHBvILI/AAAAAAAAddQ/SlTNqBLhIqc/s1600/IMG_20150829_112107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3TmXPaxSFQg/VjMbQHBvILI/AAAAAAAAddQ/SlTNqBLhIqc/s640/IMG_20150829_112107.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The free patterns this time are from Woman's Journal 6th book of Knitting and Crochet, from 1935. Found at the British Library, but not scans, just pics again I'm afraid.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6vvjmEBjR-o/VjMbPjdTTKI/AAAAAAAAddM/bDpyQte52GA/s1600/IMG_20150829_112612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6vvjmEBjR-o/VjMbPjdTTKI/AAAAAAAAddM/bDpyQte52GA/s640/IMG_20150829_112612.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
'Crochet this Three colour jumper! The main part is just two straight pieces with the new straight-across neckline.'</blockquote>
<br />
This looked interesting, as I am yet to crochet a whole garment. And why not start with a vintage one? Stitches used are dc (double crochet), and dtr (double treble).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei3J1RHNIpE/VjMa0wNJZCI/AAAAAAAAddE/VxE6NkkR6Yw/s1600/IMG_20150829_112608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei3J1RHNIpE/VjMa0wNJZCI/AAAAAAAAddE/VxE6NkkR6Yw/s640/IMG_20150829_112608.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Excuse my thumb!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I assume it is designed for summer, with it's cap sleeves and airy pattern. So if I start now, I might finish it by June! What I like is the combination of knit and crochet, with the waistband and cuffs knitted in rib, as there is really no equivalent to the stretchiness in crochet. It gives it a very professional finish.<br />
<br />
I would do it in cotton, but the original suggests wool. The colour combination sounds a little dull too. Dark brown, medium brown and fawn. Very 30s though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e05xF8S1M8s/VjMbjta_y0I/AAAAAAAAddc/56oabsv78BQ/s1600/IMG_20150829_112650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e05xF8S1M8s/VjMbjta_y0I/AAAAAAAAddc/56oabsv78BQ/s640/IMG_20150829_112650.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
For the knitting pattern I chose this for the unusual shape, and the colour, I'm a sucker for bluey greens. And belt buckles!<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
'With a Slit Basque. A Charming Jumper With a Waistcoat Effect. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Here is the new line in jumpers for those who cannot wear the short waist-length. This one, knitted in basket pattern, has a basque with an open front which gives play round the hips o' various measurements at that point.'</blockquote>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpn0bTc8cbU/VjMbtXXEc4I/AAAAAAAAddk/Up3pEz_nPVM/s1600/IMG_20150829_112658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpn0bTc8cbU/VjMbtXXEc4I/AAAAAAAAddk/Up3pEz_nPVM/s640/IMG_20150829_112658.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
It is larger than the usual jumpers, at 37 inches around the bust. And longer, at 22 inches from shoulder to lower edge.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
'A pretty stitch, a neat Eton collar, buttons at the back, and a slit basque are all points that encourage you to make this jumper which looks enchanting in green. If you are going on a cruise it is ideal to slip on when the air is crisp, or you could have it in white for tennis.'</blockquote>
<br />
Ah, I can only imagine how glamourous cruises were in the mid 1930s, and all the chic knitwear that accompanied them. And beach pyjamas. And evening gowns.<br />
<br />
I'm off to plan my summer cruise wear.<br />
<br />
Or maybe just clear up the mess in the house caused by children. Oh, the glamour.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-80578261777882789662015-10-23T12:09:00.000+01:002015-10-23T12:09:51.894+01:00The Jumper on the Cover - Stitchcraft October 1937The moment I saw the cover of this Stitchcraft, I knew I wanted to knit it. I could see it was done in 'thick' wool, but it was also very flattering. Win win. Quick knitting, warm, and not too bulky. And finished in time for winter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FH6odZdPwkU/ViOw5e1ofBI/AAAAAAAAdPs/zyEAki5sj0g/s1600/Stitchcraft_October_1937_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FH6odZdPwkU/ViOw5e1ofBI/AAAAAAAAdPs/zyEAki5sj0g/s640/Stitchcraft_October_1937_Cover.jpg" width="472" /></a></div>
<br />
It is only the second long sleeved jumper I have ever knitted, so I imagine it will get lots of wear. I was so impatient to wear it, I finished sewing it up on the tube to the British Library, and changed into it while I was there. I did get a few funny looks in the loo, as there were still a couple of ends sticking out. Thankfully, I met Caroline there (<a href="http://thesunnystitcher.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Sunny Stitcher</a>), and she kindly sewed them in for me.<br />
<br />
Between the rain showers this week, I got my husband to take some quick pics of the jumper in our garden. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O16C7YHZE3k/Vii5EspKgbI/AAAAAAAAdRk/4aojwit4oyw/s1600/IMG_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O16C7YHZE3k/Vii5EspKgbI/AAAAAAAAdRk/4aojwit4oyw/s640/IMG_0554.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
The original yarn suggested was 'Totem' by P&B. The tension required was 16 stitches to 10cm, which meant a nice aran weight yarn. I actually had some <a href="http://www.michaels.com/classic-wool-worsted-yarn/M10111116.htm" target="_blank">Patons Classic Wool Worsted</a> that I'd found in the States last year, but only 4 balls. I was sure it wouldn't be enough, but as they were 100g balls, at 192m each, I thought I'd take my chances.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fjpca8zm9E8/Vii5JM09JDI/AAAAAAAAdR0/K8HWRGzO-Hg/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fjpca8zm9E8/Vii5JM09JDI/AAAAAAAAdR0/K8HWRGzO-Hg/s640/IMG_0562.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And, as you can see, it was enough. I have possibly five or six metres left. I am often amazed at how economical vintage jumpers are with wool. That's why I'll keep on knitting them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX164Q9w__Y/Vii5HsVIdPI/AAAAAAAAdRs/nYF8hu_idKw/s1600/IMG_0577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fX164Q9w__Y/Vii5HsVIdPI/AAAAAAAAdRs/nYF8hu_idKw/s400/IMG_0577.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The front yoke has a very interesting diamond pattern, and is cast off straight across. The epaulettes and back yoke are knitted separately and sewn on. I have only one niggle - the sleeves are a tad too short. I should have measured them on myself before the armhole shaping. It pulls the shoulder down slightly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4f0dokQ27s/Vii6FueA9LI/AAAAAAAAdR8/BPVzSvoAnO0/s1600/IMG_0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4f0dokQ27s/Vii6FueA9LI/AAAAAAAAdR8/BPVzSvoAnO0/s640/IMG_0615.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
I paired it with a new design called A Lacy Beret, which is an almost exact match to the shade of the jumper. I still can't tell whether it is blue or green, but I love it.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-55138008593107369952015-10-09T12:07:00.000+01:002015-10-09T12:17:03.112+01:00E17 Designers Autumn MarketI missed a blog post last week due to my frenzied making of things to sell at the <a href="http://e17designers.co.uk/index.php?page=23&e=79" target="_blank">E17 Designers Autumn Market</a> this Sunday. I have been putting the finishing touches to the brooches and hats I'll be trying to sell there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZB7CxJT_6VY/VheWKQvbN-I/AAAAAAAAc5Q/ubp21eHpScY/s1600/IMG_20151008_102554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZB7CxJT_6VY/VheWKQvbN-I/AAAAAAAAc5Q/ubp21eHpScY/s400/IMG_20151008_102554.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I did some 1940s style brooches, which I hope will go down well, as they would make nice gifts. At least, that's what I did with all the others I have ever made.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hLcc6hvTLxg/VheWWnyfUtI/AAAAAAAAc5k/OCdEKFxip5c/s1600/IMG_9442-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hLcc6hvTLxg/VheWWnyfUtI/AAAAAAAAc5k/OCdEKFxip5c/s320/IMG_9442-COLLAGE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I designed 'Posy of Violets' a good while ago now, and have added to it since, with '<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/214915238/a-brace-of-acorns-pdf-pattern-of-an?ref=shop_home_active_5" target="_blank">A Brace of Acorns</a>', 'Bows & Bells' and 'Autumn Berries'. Only one of the patterns is available to buy on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TheodoraGoesWildUK" target="_blank">Etsy</a> at the moment, so whatever I don't sell at the fair I will add to Etsy, in good time for Christmas shopping. Along with the option to just buy the patterns for the others.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MF0JznNPwc/VheTqZpGN6I/AAAAAAAAc4Y/2ujvam0FlgI/s1600/IMG_20151009_100156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MF0JznNPwc/VheTqZpGN6I/AAAAAAAAc4Y/2ujvam0FlgI/s400/IMG_20151009_100156.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
A few hats, crocheted in muted tones, with a bit of chocolate thrown in.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQn530dMXHg/VheZG4POHjI/AAAAAAAAc54/PSiiMN-6RC0/s1600/IMG_20150908_121219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQn530dMXHg/VheZG4POHjI/AAAAAAAAc54/PSiiMN-6RC0/s320/IMG_20150908_121219.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This shot captures the colour well of what I'm calling 'A Lacy Beret'. I can't work out whether it is pale sage green, or an aquamarine blue. I don't think it really matters. It looks good with the brown alpaca.<br />
<br />
I'm doing the fair with a friend and fellow wool-head Helen Reed of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Thewoolkitchen" target="_blank">The Wool Kitchen</a>, who will be selling her urban hand dyed yarn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c4k_zKOPtqU/VheTxeIedGI/AAAAAAAAc4g/h2LzrjdhAd4/s1600/IMG_20151009_095845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c4k_zKOPtqU/VheTxeIedGI/AAAAAAAAc4g/h2LzrjdhAd4/s400/IMG_20151009_095845.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
These are the berets I will have on display there. 'A Draped Beret', and 'A Lacy Beret'.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh4xoirzJqU/VheWVkZ5R0I/AAAAAAAAc5g/alXRGJzZqTE/s1600/image%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh4xoirzJqU/VheWVkZ5R0I/AAAAAAAAc5g/alXRGJzZqTE/s320/image%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I will also be selling the patterns for the hats above - '<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/214106735/a-beret-for-everyday-an-original?ref=listing-shop-header-0" target="_blank">A Beret for Everyday</a>, '<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/240821478/a-draped-beret-a-pdf-pattern-for-an?ref=listing-shop-header-2" target="_blank">A Draped Beret</a>'. '<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/236712787/moss-stitch-beret-pdf-of-an-original?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank">Moss Stitch Beret</a>' and '<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/241294993/pom-pom-hat-an-original-design-for-a-pdf?ref=listing-shop-header-3" target="_blank">Pom Pom Hat</a>'. They are £3.<br />
<br />
The hardest bit will be no surprise to the other makers out there who try to sell - working our how much to charge. I'm still not sure, I keep changing my mind, and trying to calculate time plus materials, and balancing it with what I <i>think</i> people might expect to pay.<br />
<br />
Despite all the stressing over getting things ready, I'm really looking forward to it now. If you are in the area, or are planning on coming, please do come and say 'hello' to me and Helen. I will be easy to spot, I'll be wearing a hat, and I'll be knitting.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-21696197214728176322015-09-25T11:00:00.000+01:002015-09-25T11:00:54.325+01:00Free Pattern Friday - 'Corrugated Stripes'This pattern is from the Woman's Journal 7th Book of Knitting and Crochet from 1935. (I think).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0-AR0koH0OQ/VgUK4Rc01_I/AAAAAAAAcX4/PYqFGMBSjMs/s1600/IMG_20150829_113830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0-AR0koH0OQ/VgUK4Rc01_I/AAAAAAAAcX4/PYqFGMBSjMs/s640/IMG_20150829_113830.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a scanned pattern from the British Library's archives. Actually it is a picture from my phone, as I forgot to scan this magazine, and quickly took some pics before having to give it back. I hope the text is clear enough.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LamVYDiwH9c/VgUWpB4GefI/AAAAAAAAcYQ/VyNM32XxLoE/s1600/IMG_20150829_112924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LamVYDiwH9c/VgUWpB4GefI/AAAAAAAAcYQ/VyNM32XxLoE/s400/IMG_20150829_112924.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I chose it because it is a very simple design, suitable for a beginner. It has 'magyar' sleeves (I love that word), which means the jumper is knitted up and over, with the sleeves cast on as part of it. Which also means no sewing up of shoulder seams, or sleeves eased into armholes - hooray!<br />
<br />
I have only knitted one jumper in this style before, and loved it. I have also done baby matinee jackets and jumpers in this 'magyar' style, as it was very popular in the 1930s and 1940s.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rdmbulN_bg/VWibfty6PKI/AAAAAAAAXwY/DKHhgiwhOo4/s1600/25436_352876361497_6502294_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rdmbulN_bg/VWibfty6PKI/AAAAAAAAXwY/DKHhgiwhOo4/s400/25436_352876361497_6502294_n.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Alistair McCaskill</div>
<br />
This is a pattern from a Beehive booklet from the 1930s, suggestively named 'Interlude'.<br />
<br />
The pattern for ' Corrugated Stripes' is a simple 6 row repeat, with just knit and purl rows. The yarn used is equivalent to a modern 4 ply going by the tension. For a larger size, you could try using a DK weight, but go up a needle size too.<br />
<br />
There are so many lovely patterns I want to share from the British Library, but I am finding the scanning very tricky, as Caroline (<a href="http://thesunnystitcher.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Sunny Stitcher</a>) has mentioned before. It is hard to get the bound copies to lay flat without damaging them, and I am so loathe to do that, as many are already in such a fragile state. There is also a problem with glare from the scanner, which affects the text, but by tilting the magazine it seems to help. It is a trial and error process, which I will persevere with; weighting the pages down with tiny sand bags, beads and my hand obscured under black paper!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jag-Ga0PNcE/VgULhVE5RCI/AAAAAAAAcYA/RMwbYUqVnC8/s1600/IMG_20150829_113841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jag-Ga0PNcE/VgULhVE5RCI/AAAAAAAAcYA/RMwbYUqVnC8/s640/IMG_20150829_113841.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope you like it.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-48231145984312477912015-09-17T17:19:00.000+01:002015-09-17T17:19:02.598+01:00Rendezvous at the Russian Tea RoomsI've been invited to the launch party for a book called <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rendezvous-Russian-Tea-Rooms-Spyhunter/dp/1472119851/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1442481109&sr=8-1&keywords=rendezvous+at+the+russian+tea+rooms" target="_blank">Rendezvous at the Russian Tea Rooms</a> by <a href="http://www.paulwilletts.uk/" target="_blank">Paul Willetts.</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rmm46DwGX90/VfqDjwOnPqI/AAAAAAAAcLg/Sv9Udyq4qaA/s1600/RendezvousCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rmm46DwGX90/VfqDjwOnPqI/AAAAAAAAcLg/Sv9Udyq4qaA/s400/RendezvousCover.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Paul Willetts</div>
<br />
The book tells the story of a little-known yet significant espionage episode, most of which took place between May 1939 and May 1940. It focuses on three central characters: Anna Wolkoff was an haute couture fashion designer whose clients included the Duchess of Windsor, and who was also a spy for the Nazis. Tyler Kent was a womanising American diplomat who also doubled as a Soviet spy. Maxwell Knight was an urbane and eccentric spy hunter with MI5. The lives of these three characters became entwined as they moved amongst London's elite society during the first part of World War II, jeopardising the secrets of the wartime government.<br />
<br />
Back in January, the book's author, Paul Willets, contacted me about being the model for the cover of the book. Unfortunately, I was in the midst of a horrid chest infection (which has left me with permanent damage to my lungs). I was in total denial about how sick I really was until just before the shoot was about to take place. I let him down terribly at the last minute, with only a weekend to find another model (which, thankfully, he did). I loaned him some dresses that belonged to an actor friend, Emma Bown (below). When he stopped at the house to pick them up, he brought me a huge box of chocolates. Instead of being cross - which he had every right to be - he was <i>so</i> thoughtful and kind. A true gentleman.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1CAO5O7N8pg/VfqHqMSGsaI/AAAAAAAAcL0/cQ9MUEU6btw/s1600/RendezvousEmma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1CAO5O7N8pg/VfqHqMSGsaI/AAAAAAAAcL0/cQ9MUEU6btw/s640/RendezvousEmma.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image courtesy of Guy Myhill & Paul Willetts</div>
<br />
This is Emma Bown, and she is in the trailer for the book, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wZxaxTi008" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to dressing in something from the late 1930s, and having a fun night out. My good chum Simone will be accompanying me, and undoubtedly she will be dressed beautifully, as always. I predict by the end of the evening we will be in <a href="http://cahoots-london.com/" target="_blank">Cahoots</a>!<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-21558703330539404142015-09-11T17:17:00.000+01:002015-09-11T17:17:15.697+01:00My journalistic debut for In Retrospect magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MB5oXB05pi4/VfKhO6d4mPI/AAAAAAAAcE8/QjrlPKTiALU/s1600/His-Girl-Friday4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MB5oXB05pi4/VfKhO6d4mPI/AAAAAAAAcE8/QjrlPKTiALU/s400/His-Girl-Friday4.jpg" width="325" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image <a href="http://rozrussell.com/">rozrussell.com</a></div>
<br />
I have become a 'reader' at the <a href="http://www.bl.uk/" target="_blank">British Library</a>, and a 'writer' for <a href="http://inretrospectmagazine.com/" target="_blank">In Retrospect</a> magazine.<br />
<br />
The former feeds my need to look at vintage knitting patterns all day long. (It doesn't fulfill my need to own them, but I'm hoping that will follow, before I have to re-mortgage the house to pay for them).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bh0BrVQ4f0o/VfKtXokwBoI/AAAAAAAAcG8/Td9L3NSoGt8/s1600/FB_IMG_1441967255461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bh0BrVQ4f0o/VfKtXokwBoI/AAAAAAAAcG8/Td9L3NSoGt8/s640/FB_IMG_1441967255461.jpg" width="451" /></a></div>
<br />
The latter is something I have never done before, and it was one of the hardest things I have ever undertaken. Anyone who thinks writing is a doddle is either a natural, a genius, or has never tried. I have so much respect for good writing. Many of my friends make it look effortless, from music journalists to novelists.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--T6RK07p0vw/VfKqE7lEKuI/AAAAAAAAcGY/61CN0Hw6eCs/s1600/IMG_20150911_110057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--T6RK07p0vw/VfKqE7lEKuI/AAAAAAAAcGY/61CN0Hw6eCs/s400/IMG_20150911_110057.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Mat Keller asked me to write a piece about the music of the 1930s after hearing me play it at my house when he came to interview and photograph me for his <a href="http://www.southernretro.com/" target="_blank">Southern Retro</a> series for In Retrospect magazine. He had also seen the <a href="http://shellacsisters.co.uk/" target="_blank">Shellac Sisters</a> in action at the Rivoli Ballroom several years ago. I kept jumping up and changing the song every 3 minutes, and I expect my passion for the hot dance music of the 1930s became apparent, if somewhat annoying. It was really important for me to have the music I love playing while being photographed wearing clothes from that time. (It helped with the nerves, as it was still too early for cocktails!) <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ke_w0KaFlLo/VfLUCjg2pOI/AAAAAAAAcIM/Jwug6nTt-zo/s1600/S_Retro4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ke_w0KaFlLo/VfLUCjg2pOI/AAAAAAAAcIM/Jwug6nTt-zo/s640/S_Retro4.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
Image Mat Keller for the Southern Retro Collection</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Naturally I chose to wear knitteds. This is my cable jumper, a Copley's pattern from 1940, worn over my now threadbare 1940's day dress.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XcUJxCuAWYk/VfLUPkr-OZI/AAAAAAAAcIU/vJ4ElqhLVik/s1600/S_Retro5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XcUJxCuAWYk/VfLUPkr-OZI/AAAAAAAAcIU/vJ4ElqhLVik/s640/S_Retro5.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image Mat Keller for the Southern Retro Collection</div>
<br />
The hat is a design I haven't released yet, called 'Hat with a Tilted Brim'. It is crocheted in <a href="http://www.susancrawfordshop.com/PBSCCatalog.asp?ActionID=67174912&PBCATID=2292492&PBCATName=Fenella%202%20Ply" target="_blank">Fenella 2 ply wool</a>, by <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/Home.html" target="_blank">Susan Crawford Vintage</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--JuTiqvKiFg/VfLUZrvyc8I/AAAAAAAAcIg/3RoblUct1RY/s1600/S_Retro2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--JuTiqvKiFg/VfLUZrvyc8I/AAAAAAAAcIg/3RoblUct1RY/s640/S_Retro2.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image Mat Keller for the Southern Retro Collection</div>
<br />
The wool cupboard, in its untidy state. (Did you notice the moth killer at the back? Oops.) Here I'm wearing a 30's full length floral dress, which is a favourite, and goes very well with my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/240821478/a-draped-beret-a-pdf-pattern-for-an?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=A%20Draped%20Beret&ref=sr_gallery_1" target="_blank">'Draped Beret'</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1X9UxHkSJm0/VfLWVD52hqI/AAAAAAAAcIw/SDDorJK_Sd0/s1600/S_Retro1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1X9UxHkSJm0/VfLWVD52hqI/AAAAAAAAcIw/SDDorJK_Sd0/s640/S_Retro1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
Image Mat Keller for the Southern Retro Collection</div>
<br />
Here I am on a typical day, lounging on the sofa, reading The Needlewoman, and deciding where to lunch (I wish). I'm wearing <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-rose-jumper" target="_blank">The Rose Jumper</a> from <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/A_Stitch_in_Time_Volume_1.html" target="_blank">A Stitch in Time Vol 1</a>.<br />
<br />
I got very nervous when the magazine arrived, but my article was there, as well as the Southern Retro interview. There was a lovely article by <a href="http://crinolinerobot.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Miriam McDonald</a> about vintage caravans, and why they make such a great holiday choice for accommodation. I also enjoyed her piece in the last issue about Jazz Age holidays, which included the hotel I long to visit - The Burgh Island Hotel.<br />
<br />
It was grand meeting Mat, and we had a good chat about everything from babies to bakelite, and, of course, 78s and vintage knits.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Theodora.</div>
Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-40937280909830377972015-09-06T13:42:00.000+01:002015-09-06T14:04:56.158+01:00New Hat Designs on EtsyWith the <a href="http://e17designers.co.uk/index.php?page=23&e=79" target="_blank">E17 Autumn Designers' Market</a> coming up in early October, I have been busy making hats and brooches to sell.<br />
<br />
I have now put up some more patterns on Etsy. Here's the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TheodoraGoesWildUK" target="_blank">link</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fzmk7aaPTaA/VewtIGe4g_I/AAAAAAAAb7w/2R4_8X4yk4s/s1600/_MG_5294b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fzmk7aaPTaA/VewtIGe4g_I/AAAAAAAAb7w/2R4_8X4yk4s/s640/_MG_5294b.jpg" width="529" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/241294993/pom-pom-hat-an-original-design-for-a-pdf" target="_blank">Pom Pom Hat</a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f2lJfGjxfm8/Vewtlf_C9KI/AAAAAAAAb78/wa7uB1ZFmUI/s1600/IMG_0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f2lJfGjxfm8/Vewtlf_C9KI/AAAAAAAAb78/wa7uB1ZFmUI/s640/IMG_0173.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/236712787/moss-stitch-beret-pdf-of-an-original" target="_blank">Moss Stitch Beret</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LE92yeXUMG0/VewuTjJgxxI/AAAAAAAAb8A/kdQ78fLfu1w/s1600/IMG_0300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LE92yeXUMG0/VewuTjJgxxI/AAAAAAAAb8A/kdQ78fLfu1w/s640/IMG_0300.JPG" width="419" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/240821478/a-draped-beret-a-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">A Draped Beret</a></div>
<br />
I was a bit nervous about A Draped Beret as it is my first design for a beret in crochet, but I have been rigorous with the testing, and the checking of the pattern (over and over), and it is ready.<br />
<br />
My little shop is starting to take shape, I just need to add a few more brooch patterns, and I'll be happy with it.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TheodoraGoesWildUK" target="_blank">Have a look</a>, and let me know what you think. (If there are glaring errors, eek)!<br />
<br />
We had another Mixtape last night, so I need to lie down now and try to recover from the wine.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-62673175903398591502015-08-28T07:44:00.000+01:002015-08-28T07:44:08.877+01:00Free Pattern Friday - a prize winning jumperThis pattern is from The Needlewoman magazine from July 1934. Worked in 'Viyella' laceweight wool in red, white and blue. To fit a 34 inch bust. (The pattern is at the end of the post).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VtpdQRt6zc8/Vd3CvZyKDBI/AAAAAAAAbKY/5aZ4ybkfgcY/s1600/Needlewoman_FreePattern5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VtpdQRt6zc8/Vd3CvZyKDBI/AAAAAAAAbKY/5aZ4ybkfgcY/s640/Needlewoman_FreePattern5.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I chose this design because it took first place in The Needlewoman competition, but also because they name the designer. '...an original design by Miss E. W. Fisher...'<br />
<br />
The 'house' designers working for magazines had no such fame, they anonymously toiled away, churning out designs week after week, unaware that their work would be so highly regarded 80 years later, (by me at least). I would absolutely love to know who they were, what they thought of their job, and how much they were paid in comparison to clothes designers. The couturier Schiaparelli occasionally designed for The Needlewoman in the 1930s, to great acclaim.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LY_Xjx6wQfc/Vd32Bven1DI/AAAAAAAAbLU/H3wt8x3brAI/s1600/schiaperelli_jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LY_Xjx6wQfc/Vd32Bven1DI/AAAAAAAAbLU/H3wt8x3brAI/s400/schiaperelli_jacket.jpg" width="293" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Schiaparelli - The Needlewoman</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It is a very structured jacket, but I personally don't think it is as attractive or imaginative as the jumpers being designed by people who worked for the big knitting magazines like Stitchcraft, Good Needlework & Knitting, and Woman's Weekly. It is just a tailored jacket in knitted form. It was popular for that very reason; it successfully resembles a jacket sewn in fabric. A jacket smart enough for a lady to go riding in.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rAUy3xtCLww/Vd3DFOkMcFI/AAAAAAAAbKo/5IOAB2WRO0w/s1600/Needlewoman_FreePattern4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rAUy3xtCLww/Vd3DFOkMcFI/AAAAAAAAbKo/5IOAB2WRO0w/s400/Needlewoman_FreePattern4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I have also included the page on which the runners up and their designs are featured. It is fascinating reading (for vintage knit geeks). First prize was three guineas, and the 'consolation' prize one guinea. This competition was so close for runner up that a third place was awarded for the 'Harlequin' jumper, also an original design. It was let down only by the neck shaping and fit. I would have awarded it first place! It is by far the most fun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bQa9ro1kRY/Vd3DJO673mI/AAAAAAAAbLA/6NUgaCUoMpI/s1600/Needlewoman_FreePattern7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bQa9ro1kRY/Vd3DJO673mI/AAAAAAAAbLA/6NUgaCUoMpI/s400/Needlewoman_FreePattern7.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
<br />
What I also find interesting is the design that took second place (below), designed by a 'mere male!' This is actually the jumper I would be most likely to knit, but the 'Harlequin' jumper is still the most fetching, with it's contrasting bow neckline and belt.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LlfjGV7ImXg/Vd3DIsMuCVI/AAAAAAAAbK4/z-Y0QuVzewc/s1600/Needlewoman_FreePattern6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LlfjGV7ImXg/Vd3DIsMuCVI/AAAAAAAAbK4/z-Y0QuVzewc/s400/Needlewoman_FreePattern6.jpg" width="220" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is the pattern for the prize-winning jumper.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viJ0bG9SU9k/Vd3DVNq7eTI/AAAAAAAAbLI/pXNMobZuBpU/s1600/Needlewoman_FreePattern1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viJ0bG9SU9k/Vd3DVNq7eTI/AAAAAAAAbLI/pXNMobZuBpU/s640/Needlewoman_FreePattern1.jpg" width="473" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fAyWGAe7O8s/Vd3C58nGuYI/AAAAAAAAbKc/uuq3AdQ2hi4/s1600/Needlewoman_FreePattern2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fAyWGAe7O8s/Vd3C58nGuYI/AAAAAAAAbKc/uuq3AdQ2hi4/s640/Needlewoman_FreePattern2.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8onMzNNIHRc/Vd3DGuFPhNI/AAAAAAAAbKw/ivtvBKW2KTc/s1600/Needlewoman_FreePattern3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8onMzNNIHRc/Vd3DGuFPhNI/AAAAAAAAbKw/ivtvBKW2KTc/s400/Needlewoman_FreePattern3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope you like it.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-18362006227933911812015-08-21T10:49:00.001+01:002015-08-21T10:56:38.342+01:00Summer knitting and crochetWe're back from our holiday in the US, and I'm being kept busy with the children on school holidays. My boy starts Year 1 in September. I am quite sad for him that his Reception year is over. It was just a whole year of pure play, with a bit of fun learning thrown in. Now it's down to the real thing. <br />
<br />
I didn't get much knitting done on holiday, surprise, surprise. I did start a crochet hat from a 1930s <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Leachs-6D-156-c-1935-Vintage-Patterns-for-Millinery-Berets-Scarfs-in-Crochet-/351484227240?hash=item51d617aea8" target="_blank">Leach's Sixpenny Series</a> booklet though. I found it on Ebay, but it was a booklet from the USA so it was much cheaper to post it there than here. It is a reproduction, but I am so pleased with it. It has a glossy cover, and the magazine is reproduced in its entirety. I shouldn't have taken it to the beach though, as it is full of sand now.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-greY9ArWE30/VdRBa_jVgNI/AAAAAAAAbDs/fxcbOZ7S3nM/s1600/IMG_20150805_095908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-greY9ArWE30/VdRBa_jVgNI/AAAAAAAAbDs/fxcbOZ7S3nM/s400/IMG_20150805_095908.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I made a start on the hat below, originally intended for raffia, I'm using crochet cotton in a teal shade.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8agYr35xkI/VdWAVJPfBhI/AAAAAAAAbFU/MTK4KycFw2s/s1600/IMG_20150819_094031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8agYr35xkI/VdWAVJPfBhI/AAAAAAAAbFU/MTK4KycFw2s/s320/IMG_20150819_094031.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QU-BsP7MhUg/VdRCmra0hiI/AAAAAAAAbD8/muRHBs8ZLnA/s1600/IMG_20150810_083921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QU-BsP7MhUg/VdRCmra0hiI/AAAAAAAAbD8/muRHBs8ZLnA/s320/IMG_20150810_083921.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The brim is worked back and forth, and turned up. The only thing I don't know about the booklet is the year it was published, but it looks like early 1930s to me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BeBFdUdICSw/VdWAVAss9BI/AAAAAAAAbFU/adkzO8aQLL8/s1600/IMG_20150819_093329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BeBFdUdICSw/VdWAVAss9BI/AAAAAAAAbFU/adkzO8aQLL8/s400/IMG_20150819_093329.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also picked up six balls of Copley's 'Excelsior' 3 ply wool in navy, that I found from a seller in the US. Which is odd, as Copley's was a British company. I have a few Copley's patterns which used Excelsior wool, so I shall have to go and find them to see if any take my fancy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H3__I3CG0Eo/VdRCIOS4f0I/AAAAAAAAbD0/G9LyTxEfGRs/s1600/IMG_20150809_165020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H3__I3CG0Eo/VdRCIOS4f0I/AAAAAAAAbD0/G9LyTxEfGRs/s400/IMG_20150809_165020.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
We stayed in Kennebunkport, a pretty seaside town, so here I am outside the Clam Shack! My husband and I had a couple of evenings out, so we did the sensible thing and went thrift shopping. We bagged some bargains, including several pairs of sunglasses, a 1980s trouser suit, and a huge full-length faux fur coat! It was a challenge getting that on the aeroplane. I think I will do an outfit post on some of the things I bought. It will be fun, and ridiculous.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrDuQZ59rSM/VdRDj-0j3LI/AAAAAAAAbEM/Fcj6RPvb2q0/s1600/IMG_20150810_122857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrDuQZ59rSM/VdRDj-0j3LI/AAAAAAAAbEM/Fcj6RPvb2q0/s400/IMG_20150810_122857.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dig for Victory</div>
<br />
The kiddies had fun on the beach. My son particularly liked exploring in tide pools where he found a small lobster, a sea urchin and lots of hermit crabs.<br />
<br />
I am on the sleeves of my Stitchcraft cardigan now. I am knitting them at the same time, as so often I get second sleeve syndrome, and this will hopefully rectify that.<br />
<br />
I am off to <a href="https://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/r/rainhammarshes/" target="_blank">Rainham Marshes</a> with the children next week, to do some pond dipping and bug hunting!<br />
<br />
Are you having a good summer?<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-73936938522636310442015-07-31T13:25:00.000+01:002015-07-31T15:52:48.730+01:00Fashion on the Ration exhibitionI made it there eventually, and it was worth it. I didn't want to go in the school holidays, but I knew if I didn't go now, I would never get there. The Victoria line is closing at my end over August, so I will be trapped in the Stow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DuLC_R1ilQ/VbssL2RnvnI/AAAAAAAAaXw/BGIUfz2f9Qw/s1600/fash_on_ration1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DuLC_R1ilQ/VbssL2RnvnI/AAAAAAAAaXw/BGIUfz2f9Qw/s1600/fash_on_ration1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image <a href="http://www.iwm.org.uk/exhibitions/iwm-london/fashion-on-the-ration-1940s-street-style" target="_blank">IWM</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I took my boy with me, who was a little angel, and enjoyed the whole thing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-621CzXP7jtw/VbsrXDNNQRI/AAAAAAAAaXc/fqcCB4Uy4ks/s1600/IMG_20150730_105201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-621CzXP7jtw/VbsrXDNNQRI/AAAAAAAAaXc/fqcCB4Uy4ks/s400/IMG_20150730_105201.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My little fashion historian</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7MzXgPQZdWo/VbstfRVM0oI/AAAAAAAAaYA/QPAFPZgIBDs/s400/IMG_20150730_131704.jpg" width="300" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tank Boy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
He loved seeing the Spitfire suspended from the ceiling, and a huge tank.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tpXlIAZMis/Vbtl8eoMSmI/AAAAAAAAaZY/AG27swXuFJ8/s1600/_20150731_130719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tpXlIAZMis/Vbtl8eoMSmI/AAAAAAAAaZY/AG27swXuFJ8/s320/_20150731_130719.JPG" width="263" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image - the boy</div>
<br />
I wore my only piece of CC41 clothing - a tailored navy jacket, with what I think are the original buttons. It is a little snug now, but looks just as good unbuttoned, and to go with it I wore my <a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/users/node/14329" target="_blank">Victory Jumper</a> and Moss Stitch beret. I am also wearing a couple of brooches, a bakelite flower in a yellow/gold shade, and one of my knitted brooch patterns - <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/stores/theodora-goes-wild-designs" target="_blank">A Posy of Violets</a>. This is partly because they are pretty, and partly to hide the moth holes. Still, it hasn't done badly considering it is over 70 years old.<br />
<br />
The exhibition is broken into six sections: Into Uniform, Functional Fashion, Make Do and Mend, Utility Clothing, Beauty as Duty and Peace and a New Look.<br />
<br />
The Make Do and Mend section was a real lesson in recycling.<br />
<br />
'Everyone should understand that it is patriotic to wear old clothes. That does not mean of course that you have to look shabby. You always look neat if you keep your clothes clean and well repaired.' (From Can I Help You on the Home Service, 10th March 1942).<br />
<br />
There was a patchwork dress and housecoat made from scraps of fabric, lingerie made from silk maps originally used by the RAF, and lots of ingenious ways of re-invigorating a tired wardrobe. The poster that helped promote this was 'Go Through Your Wardrobe', (one of which I had to purchase).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QZuhtj81sk/VbssMMJ-qXI/AAAAAAAAaX0/5apwQe-4-Zw/s1600/fash_on_ration3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QZuhtj81sk/VbssMMJ-qXI/AAAAAAAAaX0/5apwQe-4-Zw/s400/fash_on_ration3.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<br />
The Utility Clothing section, which was given the name CC41, has a large and comprehensive collection of clothing from that time. Everything from underwear to a red wool overcoat, with dresses in myriad colours and fabrics.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-De-B5h-8FYQ/VbssL84Z_XI/AAAAAAAAaXs/ZQDHROdVyKk/s1600/fash_on_ration2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-De-B5h-8FYQ/VbssL84Z_XI/AAAAAAAAaXs/ZQDHROdVyKk/s320/fash_on_ration2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image IWM</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DXBgE29RRHE/VbtDZQYgO8I/AAAAAAAAaYQ/PZcwhgLdHnU/s1600/Fashion-for-the-ration-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DXBgE29RRHE/VbtDZQYgO8I/AAAAAAAAaYQ/PZcwhgLdHnU/s320/Fashion-for-the-ration-.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image Getty</div>
<br />
If I hadn't known it was utility clothing, I would never have thought anything other than how chic and beautiful it was.<br />
<br />
Beauty as Duty was a fascinating look at the lengths women had to go to, to look half decent. As makeup became scarcer and scarcer, women became increasingly desperate, and turned to homemade preparations like beetroot water to stain their lips red! I have to say this particular propoganda does rankle me a little. While the men were off fighting, women were told they just had to try and look pretty. In fact, it was their 'duty' to. Lots of cosmetics companies pushed this idea in their advertisements:<br />
<br />
'We cannot leave men to fight this war alone. Total war makes heavy demands...The slightest hint of a drooping spirit yields a point to the enemy. Never must careless grooming reflect a 'don't care' attitude...we must never forget that good looks and good morale are the closest of good companions. Put your best face forward.' (Yardley advert, 1942).<br />
<br />
On the knitting front, there was just one case, with some wools, patterns for knitted underwear, and some lovely fair isle knits, a matching beret and scarf.<br />
<br />
I thoroughly enjoyed it, and the new look <a href="http://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london" target="_blank">Imperial War Museum</a>. I hadn't been since well before my boy was born, so it was great to see all the new galleries. The staff were on hand to give much needed expert knowledge on every exhibit in the museum. It was particularly helpful when my son asked where the bombs were put in the Spitfire, (I didn't know they sometimes carried them), and as I said this a chap jumped in and told him all about it. Marvellous.<br />
<br />
On my knitting front, I am planning my holiday projects. We fly to the States on Monday for a week and having just had a phone call from the airline I was able to ask directly if I am allowed knitting needles and crochet hooks on board - and it was checked, and I am. Hooray!<br />
<br />
You may have noticed I was working on a holiday piece, a crocheted beach T-shirt thingy from <a href="http://www.insidecrochet.co.uk/" target="_blank">Inside Crochet</a> magazine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh8WfDwHczc/VbtSWXZ4_0I/AAAAAAAAaY8/sg0bGFYFG44/s1600/IMG_20150702_092749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh8WfDwHczc/VbtSWXZ4_0I/AAAAAAAAaY8/sg0bGFYFG44/s320/IMG_20150702_092749.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I went a bit crazy with my colour choices and it has turned into a bit of a beast. I have attached the front and back at the shoulders, so it looks a bit like a poncho at the moment, which would be fine if I were going to a Mexican fiesta. My husband said it would look great with a sombrero, and even better if I were holding a taco in each hand. Now I do intend to eat tacos on holiday, but perhaps not while wearing the 'Fiesta' poncho. Grrr. The original is so chic too. I might rip back the top which has closer spaced stripes and just continue with white. And do the sleeves in white.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3GTcEifc7U/VZUiTmaS2iI/AAAAAAAAZe4/o7hOfU6DvOM/s1600/_20150702_111448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3GTcEifc7U/VZUiTmaS2iI/AAAAAAAAZe4/o7hOfU6DvOM/s400/_20150702_111448.JPG" width="218" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image Inside Crochet</div>
<br />
I will be taking my Stitchcraft jumper, from the cover of March 1941.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9cBEhZYByaQ/VYKUFhs_13I/AAAAAAAAZHY/XddpT6f1dVY/s1600/IMG_20150618_103338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9cBEhZYByaQ/VYKUFhs_13I/AAAAAAAAZHY/XddpT6f1dVY/s320/IMG_20150618_103338.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I am on the second front now (ooh, sounds a bit military), just the sleeves to go. Oh, and the front bands, and the belt, and the collar. Then the sewing up. Hmm. I want to take some crochet projects too, but need some time to decide on the right ones. I might also take some yarn for projects I plan to sell at the next E17 Designers Fair in October. Some brooches and a beret or two. I will mainly be selling the patterns, but I think it might be nice to have the knitted pieces available too, for the non-knitters. I can only try.<br />
<br />
What are your plans for the summer?<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-28718653212515544882015-07-24T18:10:00.000+01:002015-07-24T18:10:54.758+01:00Free Pattern Friday - The Smartest Thing in Plain Knitting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NnDAjy2Gsik/VbIjSak5r4I/AAAAAAAAaLw/LJIOMhy6yCw/s1600/_20150724_120114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NnDAjy2Gsik/VbIjSak5r4I/AAAAAAAAaLw/LJIOMhy6yCw/s640/_20150724_120114.JPG" width="464" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Easy enough for a beginner and in a larger size</div>
<br />
Thank you all for the comments on my last post about what 'women of a certain age' should or shouldn't wear. I cringe writing that phrase. There is so much more I want to discuss about this, so watch out for more posts on women daring to age in public. Funnily enough, I found another blog post about this issue, written a couple of days before mine, by <a href="http://www.foreveramber.co.uk/women-over-30-should-wear-whatever-they-want" target="_blank">Forever Amber</a>. She had seen an article on Facebook - 24 Things Women Should Stop Wearing After Age 30. (I did NOT click on the link to read the article - I didn't want to be sucked into it. I've got enough to be angry about!). Amber commented on it in a way I would expect of any woman over 30. It is so worth reading; she is a fab writer.<br />
<br />
The free vintage pattern this month is a very elegant long sleeved jumper/jacket, and I chose it because of the model.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZzi5Tkqq9Q/VbIT6Q2DgTI/AAAAAAAAaLI/4uKabFRIRto/s1600/_20150724_102417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="395" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZzi5Tkqq9Q/VbIT6Q2DgTI/AAAAAAAAaLI/4uKabFRIRto/s400/_20150724_102417.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
'Jumper Jill' gracing the covers of my Good Needlework's</div>
<br />
Caroline, <a href="http://thesunnystitcher.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Sunny Stitcher</a>, recently shared a vintage pattern featuring this model, and it seems we are both intrigued by this nameless woman. She has fascinated me since I got my hands on a copy of Jane Waller's 1972 edition of 'A Stitch In Time' in 2007, and for the purposes of this post I will refer to her as the name The Sunny Stitcher has given her: Jumper Jill. The earliest I have seen her is from 1932 in Woman and Home magazine, wearing <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/with-the-new-cowl-neck-line" target="_blank">With A New Cowl Neckline</a>, which I modelled for the updated edition of 'A Stitch In Time'. Seeing her over and over in the jumpers that were to be recreated for the book, her face became so familiar to me, as did her expressions and poses. She is the complete opposite in looks to me, but I adore her. I think the main reason I collect these magazines is for her. I like to see how her hair and makeup changed over the decade. I'm a total fan girl.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6GnXv-xEmIk/VbIUjEvMB2I/AAAAAAAAaLQ/0fIATFD_LCo/s1600/_20150724_105955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6GnXv-xEmIk/VbIUjEvMB2I/AAAAAAAAaLQ/0fIATFD_LCo/s400/_20150724_105955.JPG" width="292" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image A Stitch In Time 1972</div>
<br />
Here she is in Stitchcraft magazine from 1933, in a very alluring pose, modelling lingerie. Called 'Step-Ins', I tried to step into a beautifully crocheted version to be photographed for the book and couldn't get them past my thighs. In fact, I ripped the stitching!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sebIwv7L3iE/VbIVD5iRRHI/AAAAAAAAaLc/3f0xw1F-MiQ/s1600/_20150724_110113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sebIwv7L3iE/VbIVD5iRRHI/AAAAAAAAaLc/3f0xw1F-MiQ/s400/_20150724_110113.JPG" width="257" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image - A Stitch In Time 1972</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
(She looked just as elegant in a knitted dressing gown.)</div>
<br />
She is the most popular model of the 1930s - and considering the explosion of knitting design that happened in that decade, that is quite something. I wonder if she was stopped in the street by women of all ages and mobbed for her autograph? I doubt it. I imagine she had a very ordinary life, although I would like to think that she went to wild cocktail parties hosted by Noel Coward, and danced all night with men who weren't her husband.<br />
<br />
'Jumper Jill' graced the covers and pages of magazines including Woman's Weekly, My Home, Stitchcraft, Woman and Home, and Good Needlework and Knitting, which is one of my personal favourites. The patterns are very well written, always include schematics, and the best thing is the suggested colour schemes. They excite me more than they should, but it is a glimpse into fashion history. It seems so elaborate now to think of planning an outfit, an <i>everyday</i> outfit (not occasion wear), down to the shade of your stockings. And yet, women's wardrobes were so much smaller than ours - capsule in fact. <a href="http://star-spangledheart.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/two-1940s-capsule-wardrobes.html" target="_blank">The Girl With The Star Spangled Heart</a> has done some great blog posts about capsule wardrobes, particularly the 1940s one. A suit for every season, a few day dresses, evening dresses, and maybe two coats? Oh, and tons of accessories. I would not be able to make that work - or would I? <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I would really like to know about her, where she lived - London? How did she start modelling knitwear? What was it like working with the photographers then, and what was the studio like? Did the knitwear designers style the shoots, or were they just kept busy churning out new patterns every week?<br />
<br />
I think she was married, I've seen a ring on her finger in some photographs. Did she have children? And what <i>was</i> her name? She reminds me of Mrs de Winter in "Rebecca". She was gone by the 1940s, perhaps her 'look' had dated, but I don't think so. We'll probably never know. If there is anyone out there who has any information about this lovely lady, I would love to hear from you.<br />
<br />
The jumper below is knit in the elusive 3 ply wool, with 3mm and 4mm needles. The size given is about 38 - 39 inches across the bust, and 20 - 21 inches long. 'Definitely the jumper should be in every wardrobe'.<br />
<br />
The pattern stretches over a few pages, and unfortunately I had make do with phone pictures as I had scanned them with a really high resolution, and was then unable to upload them. (After more than an hour, I failed). I think they are still readable in this format, though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t1XuABNYHtc/VbIrUTDzbfI/AAAAAAAAaMI/FHHWAr9o_Lc/s1600/_20150724_120936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t1XuABNYHtc/VbIrUTDzbfI/AAAAAAAAaMI/FHHWAr9o_Lc/s640/_20150724_120936.JPG" width="468" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFTTgdTB8rM/VbIr-QZuyzI/AAAAAAAAaMY/h7F88tJbV5Y/s1600/_20150724_115953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFTTgdTB8rM/VbIr-QZuyzI/AAAAAAAAaMY/h7F88tJbV5Y/s640/_20150724_115953.JPG" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_CVU6DUU7M8/VbIsGvPWGcI/AAAAAAAAaMg/qj4IZDu8DkI/s1600/_20150724_120644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_CVU6DUU7M8/VbIsGvPWGcI/AAAAAAAAaMg/qj4IZDu8DkI/s640/_20150724_120644.JPG" width="458" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Suggested Colour Schemes - Eek!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Kg_-jV7U08/VbJa_aXCQcI/AAAAAAAAaNo/R_oGeYQ1CgA/s1600/IMG_20150724_115347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Kg_-jV7U08/VbJa_aXCQcI/AAAAAAAAaNo/R_oGeYQ1CgA/s640/IMG_20150724_115347.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Now back to channeling Jumper Jill.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BiKTKlT0gdw/U4M3fA1vYyI/AAAAAAAAMPo/O3bcWNIvpNo/s1600/IMG_6690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BiKTKlT0gdw/U4M3fA1vYyI/AAAAAAAAMPo/O3bcWNIvpNo/s400/IMG_6690.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-18556349396316451392015-07-17T10:01:00.004+01:002015-07-17T10:12:31.511+01:00 Another Year Under My (Diamante) Belt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jcV79vwDBG0/Vaduul1SetI/AAAAAAAAZ0o/41g-F4-N_bs/s1600/bday_july_94.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jcV79vwDBG0/Vaduul1SetI/AAAAAAAAZ0o/41g-F4-N_bs/s640/bday_july_94.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My 21st birthday wearing a Miss World (Hole) T-shirt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I turned 42 last week, and it got me thinking. In fact, I'm pretty much always thinking about it - getting older. When I read a recent post by Jessica from <a href="http://www.chronicallyvintage.com/2015/06/by-request-advice-on-vintage-fashion.html" target="_blank">Chronically Vintage</a>, it struck a cord. It was about fashion for the over 40s (specifically, vintage fashion), and as I read it I realized it was about me. My heart sank into my DMs. Should I still be wearing the clothes I have hoarded from the 90s? Skimpy slips I used to wear in a Riot Grrrl style with DMs or patent leather Mary Janes? On reflection, hell yeah!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-roA5gYCVC3U/VadyEdgltRI/AAAAAAAAZ08/_j430cZAPVE/s1600/IMG_20150606_215603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-roA5gYCVC3U/VadyEdgltRI/AAAAAAAAZ08/_j430cZAPVE/s400/IMG_20150606_215603.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mary Janes from the nineties</div>
<br />
I don't just wear trashy slips. I love the ladylike vintage clothes, too. And jumpers. And berets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IabovnwgLCg/Vad6KsxVSpI/AAAAAAAAZ1g/DHRDLTw8360/s1600/IMG_0278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IabovnwgLCg/Vad6KsxVSpI/AAAAAAAAZ1g/DHRDLTw8360/s320/IMG_0278.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I guess I am aware that I haven't got that much time left to wear these crazy looks, so I'm just going to enjoy it while I can. My thirties blinked by, so my forties aren't going to be any slower.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BhZny64WAIA/Vad0fGpB7aI/AAAAAAAAZ1Q/vf1JtAGIXy0/s1600/IMG_20150606_231102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BhZny64WAIA/Vad0fGpB7aI/AAAAAAAAZ1Q/vf1JtAGIXy0/s320/IMG_20150606_231102.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I do feel like the old bird in the room a lot now. Not when I'm with my girls, but in the vintage scene. I took a long break from dancing and DJing when I had my son, five and a half years ago, so I feel a bit out of the loop. But being older means I have a lot more confidence, and a don't-give-a-shit attitude to most things. I guess I just want to look 30 (not 20, I'm not greedy), but be 40+, with all the wisdom acquired along the way. I could do without having to cover my grey hair every month, though. I found my first white hair at 19. As a feminist, I should probably let it show, but I just CAN'T. I know very few female clients in the salon where I work who have stopped covering the grey, but there are definitely more now than ten years ago. I totally support their choice, but I can't go there yet, or maybe ever. However, I've seen a lot of blue and pink rinses that I could rock.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_yXxb7zzNs/VafKnOubeLI/AAAAAAAAZ50/dlV1f78EVyQ/s1600/_20150716_161353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_yXxb7zzNs/VafKnOubeLI/AAAAAAAAZ50/dlV1f78EVyQ/s640/_20150716_161353.JPG" width="326" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the way to Mixtape for birthday fun</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Do I have any rules for what I wear now compared with how I dressed 15 or 20 years ago? I certainly don't take as long deciding, or trying things on. It was part of the fun back then. I don't go out nearly as much, so that means less chance of people seeing me in the same thing over and over. I went to Westfield shopping centre this week, and had a good look at the clothes in H&M, Topshop, etc, and as usual, was completely unimpressed. However, tt was worth the trip to see my daughter dance to Justin Timberlake's 'Like I Love You' in the mirror at Topshop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I definitely dress with comfort in mind now - no squeezing into too-tight shoes and trousers anymore. I have a better idea of what is flattering to me, so shapeless shift dresses are out, along with hipster flares!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I love the vintage look, but I have to say I actually find it<i> more</i> ageing sometimes. The tight curls and shingled waves of the early 1930s, worn away from the face, are very severe, as are some of the clothes. Pallazzo pants though? I can't get enough of that action! And floor length bias-cut tea dresses? Bring it on.<br />
<br />
I'd like to get a forties suit, as I think that could be dressed up or down, and is the perfect accompaniment to vintage knitwear. And the knee-length dresses from the 1940s are so easy to wear. But the heavy makeup look is not so easy on older skin. I've just started watching Agent Carter on television, and Hayley Atwell suits that look down to the platform wedges, and she can get away with the strong makeup, but I find it too ageing on me. That's why I veer more towards the 1930s, it had a more natural, feminine look, as long as you keep your hair soft, and your makeup light, especially the eyes. What I do like about the 1940s was that very few of the models looked like girls. They were women. If anything, they looked older than their years. Teen fashion hadn't been invented yet. <i>Teenagers</i> hadn't been invented yet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jS9gSZj0a2w/Vae0l1OPjeI/AAAAAAAAZ5Q/0_WN3kvjYls/s1600/IMG_20150716_143342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jS9gSZj0a2w/Vae0l1OPjeI/AAAAAAAAZ5Q/0_WN3kvjYls/s400/IMG_20150716_143342.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
So, I'm going for the look above, but I'm way closer in age to the woman below. Depressing much? Why did they frump up women this young? She's probably only 50, if that. OK, so 50 is not young, but really.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5NYeX1O3FZw/VaeyYCr6BZI/AAAAAAAAZ4k/drGoXmNWwCg/s1600/IMG_20150716_141245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5NYeX1O3FZw/VaeyYCr6BZI/AAAAAAAAZ4k/drGoXmNWwCg/s400/IMG_20150716_141245.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
You'll notice I've not mentioned men, and their wardrobe dilemmas when they turn 40. That's because they don't have any. They're not under the same scrutiny as women, in that or any area of their lives, really. They can carry on wearing whatever the hell they want without worrying about being accused of looking like 'mutton dressed as lamb'. Still, I don't have to give in to these societal pressures to stay young - I'm just vain, I suppose. And I'm having fun. Dressing up to go out was always about so much more than wearing the latest fashion,. In fact, it was never really about that. Dressing up was, and still is an opportunity to become a different character in your life, be it a 1930s screen siren (Joan Crawford) or an angry feminist agitator (Kathleen Hanna).<br />
<br />
I will continue to age. I just hope I can do it with grace and humour. And tiaras.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23YOIgckKWI/Vadu3znvXAI/AAAAAAAAZ0w/7utLLP1bVKk/s1600/Bday_pic92_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-23YOIgckKWI/Vadu3znvXAI/AAAAAAAAZ0w/7utLLP1bVKk/s640/Bday_pic92_1.jpg" width="434" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the 29 bus to Camden Town, 1994</div>
<br />
<span id="goog_611531553"></span>
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-79956646018692680472015-07-02T11:32:00.000+01:002015-07-02T13:13:49.507+01:00Summer, cotton and crochet Ah, summer is here. I hope you're all enjoying it, because I'm suffering rather. Filthy weather. 37C? In London, that is not nice. On a beach somewhere, or lounging by a pool, but not in a humid city.<br />
<br />
It makes knitting a little warm to say the least. So I just had to get out the cotton and get cracking on a warm weather top. It is inspired by the Bold Batwing Dress by Ruby McGrath of <a href="http://frankandolivecrochet.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Frank&Olive Crochet</a>, from the current issue (67), of <a href="http://www.insidecrochet.co.uk/" target="_blank">Inside Crochet</a>. I haven't bought Inside Crochet for months, as none of the projects grabbed me. I always look forward to it coming out every month, and make it a rule that at least two projects must interest me to justify buying it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3GTcEifc7U/VZUiTmaS2iI/AAAAAAAAZe0/gTiBTt04fUU/s1600/_20150702_111448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3GTcEifc7U/VZUiTmaS2iI/AAAAAAAAZe0/gTiBTt04fUU/s320/_20150702_111448.JPG" width="175" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image by Inside Crochet</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnFhmYWFNMM/VZUJ7E6RPiI/AAAAAAAAZdU/EiZF79cum88/s1600/IMG_20150702_092749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnFhmYWFNMM/VZUJ7E6RPiI/AAAAAAAAZdU/EiZF79cum88/s320/IMG_20150702_092749.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
This will be a combination of the Batwing Dress and another top Ruby McGrath's designs featured in issue 58 of Inside Crochet, The Rebekka Jumper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9V3TSmHiAqw/VZULsMB4TUI/AAAAAAAAZdg/i33Mk7RsrP8/s1600/rebekka_jumper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9V3TSmHiAqw/VZULsMB4TUI/AAAAAAAAZdg/i33Mk7RsrP8/s1600/rebekka_jumper.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image by Inside Crochet<br />
<br /></div>
I had several balls of Sugar 'n Cream cotton from last summer when I was in the States. The colours were just mouthwatering, and I had bought them initially thinking I would make another blanket, or cushion cover. I'm so glad I didn't as this might actually get finished! It is an aran weight, so I'm using a 4.5mm hook. I'm not making it quite so oversized as this or the dress. The pattern is only given in one size, to be worn with varying degrees of positive ease. It is a very simple pattern, and therefore incredibly easy to size up or down. I've adapted mine for a 44 inch bust size, and it will be about 25 -28 inches long, depending on how much it drops, because of the weight of the cotton.<br />
<br />
I'm also still working away on the cover jumper from the 1941 Stitchcraft magazine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7dqc7k-Bgo/VZUickle_TI/AAAAAAAAZe8/amV32RTMyek/s1600/_20150702_100235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7dqc7k-Bgo/VZUickle_TI/AAAAAAAAZe8/amV32RTMyek/s320/_20150702_100235.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cm4-ykSkNyM/VZUlF6Q1kXI/AAAAAAAAZfI/IMnwJQ6TJ-g/s1600/IMG_20150618_103338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cm4-ykSkNyM/VZUlF6Q1kXI/AAAAAAAAZfI/IMnwJQ6TJ-g/s320/IMG_20150618_103338.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I've almost finished the back, and it's looking good.<br />
<br />
I have lots of things happening at the moment, none of which I can reveal much about as they are in the early stages, but they are incredibly exciting, and are to do with knitting and vintage music. What else is there?<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-27338459123542198112015-06-26T14:23:00.002+01:002015-06-27T08:01:45.294+01:00Free Pattern Friday - Cable-And-Tuft pattern jumperI think I have been a bit slack in my free pattern shares recently. Sorry about that.<br />
<br />
This one comes from a 1949 edition of Woman and Home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t-2R0Tx7x90/VY5KErHF4LI/AAAAAAAAZXI/bQ8ib0iYar0/s1600/_20150627_075622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t-2R0Tx7x90/VY5KErHF4LI/AAAAAAAAZXI/bQ8ib0iYar0/s640/_20150627_075622.JPG" width="460" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OX1Bt8TJx7g/VY1RhkxRgRI/AAAAAAAAZVk/te7a9kvt-0o/s1600/Cable-and-Tuft_Jumper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OX1Bt8TJx7g/VY1RhkxRgRI/AAAAAAAAZVk/te7a9kvt-0o/s640/Cable-and-Tuft_Jumper.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-td8nsOJcrxI/VY1QTkMhfAI/AAAAAAAAZVY/Q_z57z7JgYA/s1600/Cable-and-Tuft_Jumper2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-td8nsOJcrxI/VY1QTkMhfAI/AAAAAAAAZVY/Q_z57z7JgYA/s640/Cable-and-Tuft_Jumper2.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Spt1xEl37j4/VY1Q-_Qtq6I/AAAAAAAAZVc/UiTGjLIFF1M/s1600/Cable-and-Tuft_Jumper3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Spt1xEl37j4/VY1Q-_Qtq6I/AAAAAAAAZVc/UiTGjLIFF1M/s640/Cable-and-Tuft_Jumper3.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-19608721850595427132015-06-18T20:49:00.000+01:002015-06-18T20:49:32.731+01:00Oops, I did it againI've been weak again - I started another jumper. It has been on my <i>list</i> since I saw it on the cover of a wartime Stitchcraft magazine.<br />
<br />
I've mentioned before about my slight obsession with knitting magazines, and I acquired this one a little while ago. I have to report that I have been a good knitter recently and have not been on Ebay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cBEhZYByaQ/VYKUFhs_13I/AAAAAAAAZHU/x99SHc-AvtI/s1600/IMG_20150618_103338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cBEhZYByaQ/VYKUFhs_13I/AAAAAAAAZHU/x99SHc-AvtI/s640/IMG_20150618_103338.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
It is described as a honeycomb pattern, and is more challenging than anything I have done recently, and I have to say I am really enjoying it. A bit of cable, a twist, all interspersed with ribbing. I haven't got far yet, but I only started on Monday. I had two reasons for starting it: I have had this wool in my collection for a long time, saving it for a very special knitted. It is a very close colour match. I found the buttons at Spitalfields market, but I still haven't found a buckle, which is quite crucial. I've really got to hunt one down to match the buttons. The original uses buttons to tone with the bag, I think, but I don't think I'll make the bag.<br />
<br />
The second reason for starting this was her pose and the turban she is wearing. It's just so chic. If I try to recreate that pose I might need to invest in some more blusher! Woah, that is <i>all</i> the rouge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpSbpPSsxiM/VYKUFjNNHOI/AAAAAAAAZHU/QX1p8EZ4nNw/s1600/IMG_20150618_104112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpSbpPSsxiM/VYKUFjNNHOI/AAAAAAAAZHU/QX1p8EZ4nNw/s400/IMG_20150618_104112.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is my new project bag. The moment I saw it at the E17 Art Trail, I knew I had to have it. I have one of the old row counters that is printed on it. It is from <a href="http://dottydesigns.co.uk/collections/storage-cubes?page=2" target="_blank">Dotty Designs</a>, and can accommodate quite a hefty amount of wool! It lives next to my sofa now, in full view, not stuffed in the corner with all the lost souls of half-finished knits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KXUtLCKH64I/VYKbeklCnSI/AAAAAAAAZHw/ceQciFiPNBw/s1600/IMG_20150616_222824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KXUtLCKH64I/VYKbeklCnSI/AAAAAAAAZHw/ceQciFiPNBw/s400/IMG_20150616_222824.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This week I went to an L7 gig in Camden town at The Electric Ballroom. It had been quite a long time since I went to a gig, and - wait for it - more than 20 years since I last saw L7! (I may as well come clean, it's not like I'm pretending to be a young flibbertigibbet.) It was at the now (in)famous 1992 Reading festival. L7 were wonderfully wild and already notorious, riding on the (short-lived) 3rd wave of feminist optimism, as was I. I wore a t-shirt by Silverfish emblazoned with the slogan 'Hips, Tits, Lips, Power'.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KWedcb5fxeg/VYKbesawziI/AAAAAAAAZHw/pti64piny70/s1600/IMG_20150616_213944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KWedcb5fxeg/VYKbesawziI/AAAAAAAAZHw/pti64piny70/s400/IMG_20150616_213944.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
They did not disappoint. My friends and I got in just as L7 went on, deciding on one last quick drink in one of our old haunts The Good Mixer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuMAv4JI3D0/VYKbehg1XQI/AAAAAAAAZHw/U3W7yBJu3k8/s1600/IMG_20150616_205449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuMAv4JI3D0/VYKbehg1XQI/AAAAAAAAZHw/U3W7yBJu3k8/s400/IMG_20150616_205449.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Err, I don't know what I'm doing here. Too many Snakebites.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R3Yp1tyY8ZU/VYKkkpIl3XI/AAAAAAAAZIE/H1Fs5RIFnhM/s1600/IMG-20150617-WA0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R3Yp1tyY8ZU/VYKkkpIl3XI/AAAAAAAAZIE/H1Fs5RIFnhM/s400/IMG-20150617-WA0004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I went with my two Riot Grrrl buds, Shanthi and Nese. We used to roam the streets of Camden Town on a regular basis, but Nese and I both have children, so now we mostly roam playgrounds and parks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7lGlV-uaIDs/VYKbes2_eiI/AAAAAAAAZHw/UDBeW40OIzY/s1600/IMG_20150616_213950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7lGlV-uaIDs/VYKbes2_eiI/AAAAAAAAZHw/UDBeW40OIzY/s400/IMG_20150616_213950.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We shoved our way down near the front, and the crowd just boiled when they played 'Andres'. After a few songs, we looked guiltily at each other, and decided we needed a drink. Not that the pit was too much for us or anything!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lKOEf3VcoIw/VYKbev8lpDI/AAAAAAAAZHw/EGJqQDj5DYs/s1600/IMG_20150616_202056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lKOEf3VcoIw/VYKbev8lpDI/AAAAAAAAZHw/EGJqQDj5DYs/s400/IMG_20150616_202056.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Ah, it was fun being 'young' and carefree again. Glad I got the last Tube home, though.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-48775554801125497532015-06-11T17:42:00.000+01:002015-06-11T17:42:35.604+01:00E17 Art Trail fun The E17 Art Trail is still on, but my little stint is over. For 'A Life of Skein', my friend <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Thewoolkitchen" target="_blank">Helen</a> opened up her garden for two days of woolly goodness. Helen has only been dyeing for just over six months, and in that short space of time she has built a very solid base and already sells at shops and designers fairs. As you can probably tell from the photos, she LOVES colour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo9e340GNAs/VXgCDSYySqI/AAAAAAAAYns/gG5iqmMfgNI/s1600/IMG_20150605_110842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo9e340GNAs/VXgCDSYySqI/AAAAAAAAYns/gG5iqmMfgNI/s320/IMG_20150605_110842.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
She displayed all her yarns, in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Thewoolkitchen" target="_blank">skeins</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/230822519/hand-dyed-yarn-4ply-finger-weight-merino?ref=shop_home_active_22" target="_blank">cakes</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2dpMPtsrKI/VXgCDV3luCI/AAAAAAAAYns/eFIwo3ZETAM/s1600/IMG_20150605_114401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2dpMPtsrKI/VXgCDV3luCI/AAAAAAAAYns/eFIwo3ZETAM/s320/IMG_20150605_114401.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I displayed my beret patterns, and actually sold some! The box here has the chunky weight yarn I used for the cowl below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrDGbALTmR8/VXgCDdyfyXI/AAAAAAAAYns/z_db8o-Y5hc/s1600/IMG_20150605_165538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrDGbALTmR8/VXgCDdyfyXI/AAAAAAAAYns/z_db8o-Y5hc/s320/IMG_20150605_165538.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There were spinning demonstrations.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zJFKemrjQHQ/VXgCDZANT1I/AAAAAAAAYns/xhimPNtpdaM/s1600/IMG_20150607_120209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zJFKemrjQHQ/VXgCDZANT1I/AAAAAAAAYns/xhimPNtpdaM/s320/IMG_20150607_120209.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I used a gorgeous <a href="https://www.facebook.com/berylandiris" target="_blank">cake stand</a> to show my knitted brooches. (This reminds me, I need to get one).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0LgE3cTXO0M/VXgCDVd79OI/AAAAAAAAYns/Hm3L2ymxa4M/s1600/IMG_20150607_112228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0LgE3cTXO0M/VXgCDVd79OI/AAAAAAAAYns/Hm3L2ymxa4M/s320/IMG_20150607_112228.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The table in all it's glory.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PWL71UeXjs/VXgCDYcUAsI/AAAAAAAAYns/uNRUiS3zhhA/s1600/IMG_20150607_172555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PWL71UeXjs/VXgCDYcUAsI/AAAAAAAAYns/uNRUiS3zhhA/s320/IMG_20150607_172555.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I cast on a cowl on Friday in a chunky wool, and it was finished and sewn up by Sunday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9wFAfuWwnI/VXgCDYRi9CI/AAAAAAAAYns/Mh4-eJwFJeA/s1600/IMG_20150607_161105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9wFAfuWwnI/VXgCDYRi9CI/AAAAAAAAYns/Mh4-eJwFJeA/s320/IMG_20150607_161105.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm wearing my nautical version of A Draped Beret, in white cotton. Helen is wearing the Moss Stitch Beret, which uses her Blue-faced Leicester.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WczcrTanc5Y/VXgCDVjegrI/AAAAAAAAYns/Au-ayzZRTPg/s1600/IMG_20150607_150313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WczcrTanc5Y/VXgCDVjegrI/AAAAAAAAYns/Au-ayzZRTPg/s320/IMG_20150607_150313.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Spinning in the sunshine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ImSz3REoAiA/VXgCDV724uI/AAAAAAAAYns/cLTIHXw9MJ8/s1600/IMG_20150607_135430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ImSz3REoAiA/VXgCDV724uI/AAAAAAAAYns/cLTIHXw9MJ8/s320/IMG_20150607_135430.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We knitted, chatted, and laughed a lot. We indulged in cakes made by friends, and made new friends. There are now further knitting collaborations on the horizon, which is incredibly exciting!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-faEpBgX8_hI/VXgCDZNQC2I/AAAAAAAAYns/IcNxO04e_t0/s1600/IMG_20150607_130209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-faEpBgX8_hI/VXgCDZNQC2I/AAAAAAAAYns/IcNxO04e_t0/s320/IMG_20150607_130209.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I was so chuffed at selling some patterns, I had to take a picture of this lovely lady!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vwQov7g06YI/VXgD5PIT8eI/AAAAAAAAYoE/26fWIjvec4w/s1600/11419288_374755939388088_1760841599_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vwQov7g06YI/VXgD5PIT8eI/AAAAAAAAYoE/26fWIjvec4w/s320/11419288_374755939388088_1760841599_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Back to the knitting now. I am making knitted brooches to sell on Etsy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oq0SwbpOpFU/VXlREMB2A2I/AAAAAAAAYsI/Zc_pqKj8x3M/s1600/IMG_9789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oq0SwbpOpFU/VXlREMB2A2I/AAAAAAAAYsI/Zc_pqKj8x3M/s320/IMG_9789.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a new design, 'Bows & Bells'. Like another design, the <a href="http://blitzknits.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/crocheted-gifts-current-projects-and.html" target="_blank">Envelope Clutch</a>, this was made for a friend's birthday. I had the foresight to write the pattern down as I did it, and to take photos of it before I gave it away.<br />
<br />
I have been spurred on immensely by Helen, whose focus and sheer hard work has made me realize how much you can achieve if you just put your mind to it. And get off your butt.<br />
<br />
I'm going back to sit on my butt and knit furiously.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-20514115959695990932015-06-01T15:29:00.000+01:002015-06-01T16:41:58.675+01:00Getting ready for the E17 Art Trail, and a trip to MinsmereI've been knitting furiously over the past week, in preparation for the <a href="http://www.e17arttrail.co.uk/?acceptcookies=yes" target="_blank">E17 Art Trail</a>. Testing my hat patterns (again), even taking them away on a little holiday to finish. This sounds like it was an effort. It most certainly was not. I always take knitting away with me, (in fact I take it almost everywhere with me). I aim to always be knitting furiously, when life permits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZ4DBnL7izs/VWijyPA5vYI/AAAAAAAAXxc/f0pAhmu8-_g/s1600/IMG_0149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZ4DBnL7izs/VWijyPA5vYI/AAAAAAAAXxc/f0pAhmu8-_g/s400/IMG_0149.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We were kindly offered a cottage in Suffolk for a few days over half-term by friends, so we jumped at the chance. It was right near <a href="https://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/m/minsmere/" target="_blank">Minsmere</a> <a href="http://www.rspb.org.uk/" target="_blank">RSPB</a> reserve, where <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b007qgm3" target="_blank">Springwatch</a> is based this year. My boy has a true love of nature, nurtured by us, and it was a joy to be with him as he experienced all the beauty of Minsmere. We saw an adder, bearded tits, avocets, and sand martins swooping low just past our faces. We even heard the boom of a bittern. We were lucky enough to have two sitings of bitterns. Miss B was more interested in the ladybird backpack the reserve gave her than the bittern flying directly over her head!<br />
<br />
We had a day out in Aldeburgh, where we found the loveliest diner I've ever seen, and I've been to America and everything! Delphine's (it has no website), was a little slice of 50s kitsch, but so beautifully done, right down to the condiment jars. It was a tiny place but we grabbed a booth by the window.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRgohcVy9vU/VWiie3rqr6I/AAAAAAAAXxQ/iA4umejkNV0/s1600/IMG_20150525_132644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRgohcVy9vU/VWiie3rqr6I/AAAAAAAAXxQ/iA4umejkNV0/s400/IMG_20150525_132644.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Formica table tops, mint green walls, and a mirrored ceiling!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qRu5IrkbJAw/VWxqwNlHdtI/AAAAAAAAX3c/ICA0kjhdipo/s1600/IMG_20150525_133644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qRu5IrkbJAw/VWxqwNlHdtI/AAAAAAAAX3c/ICA0kjhdipo/s320/IMG_20150525_133644.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The most crucial thing for me, and the American hubby, was the food. It was up to the standard of the decor, and that is high praise indeed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dH2GGnZmxh8/VWiiez8S8PI/AAAAAAAAXxQ/O7PTdyNix-Y/s1600/IMG_20150525_133122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dH2GGnZmxh8/VWiiez8S8PI/AAAAAAAAXxQ/O7PTdyNix-Y/s320/IMG_20150525_133122.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We ordered apple juice for the children, and it came in cute little bottles with straws.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TPUjDLZMuYQ/VWiiezejo3I/AAAAAAAAXxQ/M403yY9psZw/s1600/IMG_20150528_184656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TPUjDLZMuYQ/VWiiezejo3I/AAAAAAAAXxQ/M403yY9psZw/s320/IMG_20150528_184656.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I found a vintage fair in <a href="http://www.snapemaltings.co.uk/" target="_blank">Snape Maltings</a>, so I went a bit embroidery crazy! A cushion cover,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1dFAQkPQ0k/VWiie7RiptI/AAAAAAAAXxQ/ak5DmniYH4M/s1600/IMG_20150528_185418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1dFAQkPQ0k/VWiie7RiptI/AAAAAAAAXxQ/ak5DmniYH4M/s320/IMG_20150528_185418.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
an enormous tea cozy, and a couple of table cloths. I also picked up an entire box of 1930s embroidery transfers. I didn't really want the whole box, but it was the end of the day, it was raining, and the woman selling them said she didn't want to take them home. I'm not complaining, there are some crinoline ladies in there! I could seriously get into embroidery, if I didn't need to sleep at night.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FoqAK98H7IY/VWiie6s-udI/AAAAAAAAXxQ/uKHfwtYZghQ/s1600/IMG_20150529_075443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FoqAK98H7IY/VWiie6s-udI/AAAAAAAAXxQ/uKHfwtYZghQ/s320/IMG_20150529_075443.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I also saw some 'china' I had never come across before called Melmex. It is a type of plastic from the 1960s (I think). I confined myself to just one, in this pastel pink. I rather fancied a lime green one too, and now I regret not buying it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IQNJRRGAmQE/VWihZGMQpdI/AAAAAAAAXww/jdwf5S8HRYI/s1600/IMG_0112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IQNJRRGAmQE/VWihZGMQpdI/AAAAAAAAXww/jdwf5S8HRYI/s320/IMG_0112.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Fun was had on the beach collecting rocks, and them throwing them into the sea.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlMa3KNn-54/VWihvHOq5WI/AAAAAAAAXw4/tkAoif0rbQY/s1600/IMG_0135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlMa3KNn-54/VWihvHOq5WI/AAAAAAAAXw4/tkAoif0rbQY/s320/IMG_0135.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zIXQHVr3xNU/VWiiPIw3qKI/AAAAAAAAXxA/UTMk9-bV8W0/s1600/IMG_0130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zIXQHVr3xNU/VWiiPIw3qKI/AAAAAAAAXxA/UTMk9-bV8W0/s320/IMG_0130.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I went to the International Club again last Saturday night with my knitting buddy Simone. We met in <a href="https://www.brasseriezedel.com/" target="_blank">Zedel's</a> for dinner first and were pleasantly surprised when the staff gave us a complimentary glass of bubbly. It was because we were wearing hats!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eff-HOXhTJg/VWxjxaVWCNI/AAAAAAAAX3E/q4OZfKK7Vz0/s1600/IMG_20150530_202019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eff-HOXhTJg/VWxjxaVWCNI/AAAAAAAAX3E/q4OZfKK7Vz0/s400/IMG_20150530_202019.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Simone had been to <a href="http://www.iwm.org.uk/exhibitions/iwm-london/fashion-on-the-ration" target="_blank">Fashion on the Ration</a> earlier that day, so was wearing a 1940s ensemble, consisting of a <a href="http://www.1940.co.uk/acatalog/an-introduction-to-utility-clothing.html" target="_blank">CC41</a> dress and maroon hat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WLDcR9NfcXQ/VWibfjHE26I/AAAAAAAAXwI/OAE8onrPTag/s1600/25436_352876461497_2323297_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WLDcR9NfcXQ/VWibfjHE26I/AAAAAAAAXwI/OAE8onrPTag/s400/25436_352876461497_2323297_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo by Wozza</div>
<br />
I wore a cotton jumper I made from a Beehive Wool String pattern book, named 'Interlude'.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4ikybNzFUM/VWxk6qw03cI/AAAAAAAAX3M/GD0mur3K2XE/s1600/IMG_20150530_201938%257E3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4ikybNzFUM/VWxk6qw03cI/AAAAAAAAX3M/GD0mur3K2XE/s400/IMG_20150530_201938%257E3.jpg" width="370" /></a></div>
<br />
The hat I wore is a beret I designed because I just couldn't find the right 1930s pattern for one. It is crocheted, in navy cotton to match the jumper, and because I love navy. Unimaginatively named 'A Draped Beret', I designed it in two sizes, (21 inches and 22 - 23 inches). It also comes in three 'depths', to be worn with more or less drape depending on your personal preference. The beret above is the middle depth.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMkq-7MelOA/VBl0k2Q2MBI/AAAAAAAAMKY/P2Zrp-dHx20/s1600/IMG_20140914_161037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMkq-7MelOA/VBl0k2Q2MBI/AAAAAAAAMKY/P2Zrp-dHx20/s320/IMG_20140914_161037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
This version in white has the least depth, which gives it a more nautical look. I will be releasing this pattern at the <a href="http://www.e17arttrail.co.uk/?acceptcookies=yes" target="_blank">E17 Art Trail</a> on Friday if I can get a half decent photo of it by then.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_310456657"></span></div>
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-51813036858979344572015-05-21T18:36:00.000+01:002015-05-21T18:36:53.357+01:00E17 Art TrailIt's nearly the start of the <a href="http://www.e17arttrail.co.uk/" target="_blank">E17 Art Trail</a> in Walthamstow. For the first time since I've lived here, I am taking part. I'm very excited about it, but also quite nervous. My good friend <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-wool-kitchen/1389304914675204" target="_blank">Helen Reed</a> invited me to join her for 'A Life of Skein'. We're venue number 11 on the programme.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5SCQ3bN90RI/VV33o2gNRyI/AAAAAAAAXdE/FiPaKXPGu2Q/s1600/woolkitchen2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5SCQ3bN90RI/VV33o2gNRyI/AAAAAAAAXdE/FiPaKXPGu2Q/s320/woolkitchen2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo courtesy of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Thewoolkitchen?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">The Wool Kitchen</a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-brOz_CeQ-yU/VV33pJZ_wlI/AAAAAAAAXdI/vDOjZP4G1B0/s1600/woolkitchen1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-brOz_CeQ-yU/VV33pJZ_wlI/AAAAAAAAXdI/vDOjZP4G1B0/s320/woolkitchen1.jpg" width="235" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo courtesy of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Thewoolkitchen?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">The Wool Kitchen</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We will be hosting it over two days. On Friday 5th June from 10am - 3pm, and Sunday 7th June from 11am - 5pm. our aim is to 'Bring you knitting, crochet and spinning for knit and chat in the garden.'<br />
<br />
Helen will be showcasing her hand-dyed yarns, of which she has many! In all weights, from lace weight to super chunky (above), and in a myriad of colours, solid and variegated.<br />
<br />
I'm using a 2 ply Exmoor Blue Faced Leicester for my Moss Stitch Beret, which I will release as a pattern for the Art Trail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qXxcidIBvH4/VV3AfIUdVzI/AAAAAAAAXco/Izgdgx39KRw/s1600/IMG_20150519_130952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qXxcidIBvH4/VV3AfIUdVzI/AAAAAAAAXco/Izgdgx39KRw/s320/IMG_20150519_130952.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's lovely wool to knit with, super soft and fluffy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WM-r0oFvWUo/VV37MLqjg5I/AAAAAAAAXdY/uaEZWOEQjO8/s1600/25436_352826416497_3451763_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WM-r0oFvWUo/VV37MLqjg5I/AAAAAAAAXdY/uaEZWOEQjO8/s320/25436_352826416497_3451763_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo by <a href="http://wozza.info/" target="_blank">Wozza</a></div>
The Moss Stitch Beret in 4 ply alpaca.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUffBiMaNek/U4HKZhXDOwI/AAAAAAAAJ8U/ydl0zjLOlcw/s1600/IMG_7713_B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUffBiMaNek/U4HKZhXDOwI/AAAAAAAAJ8U/ydl0zjLOlcw/s320/IMG_7713_B.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
This version is in an aran weight silk and alpaca blend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjdkPhV__fI/VV2_w0VXelI/AAAAAAAAXcg/xDoy7Sxluqo/s1600/_MG_5294b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjdkPhV__fI/VV2_w0VXelI/AAAAAAAAXcg/xDoy7Sxluqo/s320/_MG_5294b.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo by Mike D</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This is a pattern I had almost forgotten about: Pom Pom Beret. I previously released it as a kit with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/ABSTRACT-Yarn-Shop/417928518327030?fref=ts" target="_blank">Abstract</a> yarn shop in Walthamstow village, run by Alessandra Rigillo.<br />
<br />
I'm using one of Helen's 'urban hand-dyed' yarns for this one: Another Blue Faced Leicester in an aran weight, so it knits up nice and quickly. It is a super easy pattern, perfect for a beginner. It uses only the knit stitch (garter stitch), with some decreases to shape the top. It has to have pom poms - the bigger, the better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tLSI-7b6-i4/VV3CLpzVPpI/AAAAAAAAXc0/mCBcDYCL4po/s1600/IMG_20150521_093329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tLSI-7b6-i4/VV3CLpzVPpI/AAAAAAAAXc0/mCBcDYCL4po/s320/IMG_20150521_093329.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
If you want to see more of her hand dyes, take a peek <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Thewoolkitchen?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2whsbjVZf-c/VV2_iVk749I/AAAAAAAAXcU/VXhHWmOMhv0/s1600/n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2whsbjVZf-c/VV2_iVk749I/AAAAAAAAXcU/VXhHWmOMhv0/s320/n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo by Mike D</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I seem to be big on the hat knitting. Hmm. Here's my '<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/214106735/a-beret-for-everyday-an-original?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Beret for Everyday</a>'. This was done in <a href="http://www.excelana.com/" target="_blank">Excelana</a>, which is - you guessed it - Exmoor Blue Faced Leicester! This pattern will be available at the Art Trail, too.<br />
<br />
Let's hope lots of people turn up, or we'll be getting through a lot of tea and cakes ourselves! If you are in Walthamstow, please do come and join us and say, 'Hello'. We aren't bitchin' (like in the photo below), we're just knitting nerds. But then, if you read this blog, you'll know that about me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JfImpobnHHE/VV256-wDebI/AAAAAAAAXa4/c0YX-ozu0-Y/s1600/IMG_20150412_002644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JfImpobnHHE/VV256-wDebI/AAAAAAAAXa4/c0YX-ozu0-Y/s320/IMG_20150412_002644.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We won't be dressed like this, either. There will be more wool. A lot more. I hope it's not too warm out.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-63150891495641857262015-05-15T07:49:00.000+01:002015-05-15T07:49:04.332+01:00Free Pattern Friday and a year of blogging<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft_4unDsfbI/VVRwg7Ae-xI/AAAAAAAAXNk/tS3OSu_BNb0/s1600/Lavenda_Twinset_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft_4unDsfbI/VVRwg7Ae-xI/AAAAAAAAXNk/tS3OSu_BNb0/s320/Lavenda_Twinset_Cover.jpg" width="245" /></a></div>
<br />
The end of April marked a year of consistent blogging for me. I actually started this blog in 2011, and managed four posts before I let it slide. I still don't really know what my blog is about, but the consistent theme seems to be vintage knitting, interspersed with the fun things I get up to.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta3XUcL45V8/VVRoAQzBISI/AAAAAAAAXMY/0fgYgBYyBDQ/s1600/IMG_20150510_200529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta3XUcL45V8/VVRoAQzBISI/AAAAAAAAXMY/0fgYgBYyBDQ/s320/IMG_20150510_200529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sometimes, I combine the two, like on a day out with the kiddies in coordinating colours. Here's another look at my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/your-victory-jumper" target="_blank">Victory Jumper</a>, this time with shoulder pads. They just finish it off. I'm so happy with the length of the sleeves, too, just above the elbow. This was a very popular length in the 1940s, as it made it a very wool-saving alternative to long sleeves when wool was in short supply.<br />
<br />
The free pattern this month is from the 1950s, and it's a twinset. A longish polo-neck jumper paired with a dolman-sleeved bolero.<br />
<br />
I just love her pose on the cover, and the bold blonde highlights at the front of her tousled, bobbed hair. Quite fancy the skirt and chunky bracelet, too!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wT-O6fXf7AQ/VVRo5ZLEPII/AAAAAAAAXMk/iKssxo8Xp7A/s1600/Lavenda_Twinset_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wT-O6fXf7AQ/VVRo5ZLEPII/AAAAAAAAXMk/iKssxo8Xp7A/s320/Lavenda_Twinset_Cover.jpg" width="245" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jmA3ilO5CII/VVRpBXXsmMI/AAAAAAAAXMw/PTjEM44hnX4/s1600/Lavenda_Twinset_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jmA3ilO5CII/VVRpBXXsmMI/AAAAAAAAXMw/PTjEM44hnX4/s320/Lavenda_Twinset_1.jpg" width="244" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgXhAruDUrU/VVRpA304B-I/AAAAAAAAXMs/SLWC4LWAQ2U/s1600/Lavenda_Twinset_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgXhAruDUrU/VVRpA304B-I/AAAAAAAAXMs/SLWC4LWAQ2U/s320/Lavenda_Twinset_2.jpg" width="241" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It is a larger size than usual: 35-37 inch bust. Worked in 3 ply at a tension of 7.5 sts to the inch, it would be easy to substitute a 4 ply for a slightly larger size.<br />
<br />
It will be on the <a href="http://blitzknits.blogspot.co.uk/p/blog-page_18.html" target="_blank">Free Vintage Patterns</a> page, too.<br />
<br />
I went to another International Club at the end of April, with my friend Simone. We met for dinner, and headed over for an evening of 78s and a live band. There was a vintage photo booth set up in the basement by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hanson-Leatherby-Photography/153413591478415?fref=ts" target="_blank">Hanson Leatherby</a>, a rather marvelous photographer, who specializes in vintage-style photography. I haven't seen any of the shots from that night yet, but everyone had a great time doing it, so I'm sure they will be amusing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fg_QeyaySd4/VVMaiZAJDlI/AAAAAAAAXJc/yfT5akCuoAA/s1600/IMG_20150425_174248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fg_QeyaySd4/VVMaiZAJDlI/AAAAAAAAXJc/yfT5akCuoAA/s320/IMG_20150425_174248.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Simone promised vintage knitwear, and she did not disappoint. Here, she's wearing the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/a-swagger-coat" target="_blank">Miss Marple coat</a> from <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/A_Stitch_in_Time_Volume_2.html" target="_blank">A Stitch In Time Vol 2</a>, in a very sensible brown shade.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WRaeT1qC3xY/VVMYwIb86lI/AAAAAAAAXJQ/8oZfJ5YwPG0/s1600/IMG_20150428_181759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WRaeT1qC3xY/VVMYwIb86lI/AAAAAAAAXJQ/8oZfJ5YwPG0/s320/IMG_20150428_181759.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Her jumper is from a 1930s edition of Stitchcraft magazine, in D.K weight wool. She describes the shade as Sea Green, which sounds very 30s to me. She was very kind and gave me some 3 ply wool, in the same sea green shade, and some in cream. I will give it a very good home. I'm still trying to decide what pattern to knit with it. I'm wearing <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/embroidered-with-tiny-flowers" target="_blank">Embroidered With Tiny Flowers</a> from <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/A_Stitch_in_Time_Volume_1.html" target="_blank"><span id="goog_741446563"></span>A Stitch In Time Vol 1</a>. I love the enormous balloon sleeves.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AzPqlWo19w4/VVMaiR3mb9I/AAAAAAAAXJc/kHemH_WxRpc/s1600/IMG_20150425_230646~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AzPqlWo19w4/VVMaiR3mb9I/AAAAAAAAXJc/kHemH_WxRpc/s400/IMG_20150425_230646~2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We had some fun in the restored pub where the night is held.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TGK_MRvkZYc/VVMaie0poeI/AAAAAAAAXJc/RzxeVuVwPVk/s1600/IMG_20150425_230914~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TGK_MRvkZYc/VVMaie0poeI/AAAAAAAAXJc/RzxeVuVwPVk/s320/IMG_20150425_230914~2.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
<br />
Simones' long-suffering pal <a href="https://www.facebook.com/gordon.ayres.92?fref=pb&hc_location=friends_tab&pnref=friends.all" target="_blank">Gordon</a> took these pics of us clowning around.<br />
<br />
On to the next night of frivolity. I'm still wearing pink, and my hair is still curly. Just fast-forward fifty years.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mOA23pdz540/VVMc_-X77KI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/VFV5o50AVXM/s1600/IMG_20150502_201607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mOA23pdz540/VVMc_-X77KI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/VFV5o50AVXM/s320/IMG_20150502_201607.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/MixtapeE17/" target="_blank">Mixtape</a> was all about the Yacht Rock last month, and it gave me the perfect opportunity to wear a turquoise jumpsuit and my 'Stevie Nicks' sparkly kimono blouse.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmIgqmNmNis/VVMc_1zQ4yI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/YE6DYF4n_wc/s1600/IMG_20150503_003532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmIgqmNmNis/VVMc_1zQ4yI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/YE6DYF4n_wc/s320/IMG_20150503_003532.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
My hair got some serious scrunching action, and I wore it to one side with a hair-comb and copious amounts of hairspray to keep it there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1wCbfkYujY/VVMc_xhcFhI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/ruFlGxJ0jxw/s1600/IMG_20150502_232759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1wCbfkYujY/VVMc_xhcFhI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/ruFlGxJ0jxw/s320/IMG_20150502_232759.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
My partner in crime was Magnum P.I. (see what I did there). The 'tache was pretty impressive.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S6aZwgKEzew/VVMc_8UmPEI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/92-Kl-KWPys/s1600/IMG_20150503_005017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S6aZwgKEzew/VVMc_8UmPEI/AAAAAAAAXJ0/92-Kl-KWPys/s320/IMG_20150503_005017.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
There was dancing and white wine spritzers were sipped langorously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-usak3wT6tao/VVMc_9lf81I/AAAAAAAAXJ0/WQT0Tkg_K54/s1600/IMG_20150502_235718-ANIMATION.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-usak3wT6tao/VVMc_9lf81I/AAAAAAAAXJ0/WQT0Tkg_K54/s320/IMG_20150502_235718-ANIMATION.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope this photo thing doesn't mess with your head, my phone did it automatically.<br />
<br />
Last month wasn't all fun and games. We had to say goodbye to our beloved puss, Mr Tibbs. He'd been with us since 2006, wandering into our garden as a stray, and becoming a very willing house cat. He was an ace mouser, too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTdbnTy0e6I/VVMYT_CZjEI/AAAAAAAAXJA/SJaY9wTIm_Y/s1600/IMG_20150426_091904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTdbnTy0e6I/VVMYT_CZjEI/AAAAAAAAXJA/SJaY9wTIm_Y/s320/IMG_20150426_091904.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm glad I got some pictures of him before he was put to sleep. He was very ill by the end, so skinny.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8agImlrWXY/VVMYl_sqc6I/AAAAAAAAXJI/PHMgIk_7vvk/s1600/IMG_20150427_164219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8agImlrWXY/VVMYl_sqc6I/AAAAAAAAXJI/PHMgIk_7vvk/s320/IMG_20150427_164219.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
He lost that eye quite recently, as a result of an infection made worse by the FIV he had. He was such a loving cat, but he shared a house with two female cats who never took to him, so there was always tension. He had a good life though, I think.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-545206242401088484.post-57364299387598593952015-05-08T10:35:00.000+01:002015-05-08T11:03:04.992+01:00VE Day and My Victory JumperI finished it just in time, yesterday in fact. Frantically sewing up, voting and baking brownies with my boy, who was off school. He also took these photos. He is five.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBPGyu9-jqA/VUxZDmCmabI/AAAAAAAAW88/qY6QYw0m6w4/s1600/IMG_0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBPGyu9-jqA/VUxZDmCmabI/AAAAAAAAW88/qY6QYw0m6w4/s640/IMG_0079.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/users/node/14329" target="_blank">Your Victory Jumper</a>, a now famous pattern, put out by the Victoria & Albert museum, and available on their website. On <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/your-victory-jumper" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>, there are over 100 versions of this jumper. It was actually released by Home Notes magazine in June of 1945, so you wouldn't have been able to wear it on VE day. But I can. And I'm very proud to.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoIF0EbcIR0/VUxq2hAQVYI/AAAAAAAAW9k/y-S_I8Ksse4/s1600/IMG_20150220_145012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoIF0EbcIR0/VUxq2hAQVYI/AAAAAAAAW9k/y-S_I8Ksse4/s320/IMG_20150220_145012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I used a vintage 3 ply wool in navy, Beehive Purple Heather. The red was a Cygnet 4 ply, but it is actually closer to a 3 ply in thickness. The white was a 4 ply, pure wool. I was amazed at how far the vintage wool went, only using the 3 balls the pattern called for. Two balls of Cygnet 4 ply, and one ball of white.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DP_up-GdBhE/VUxZDgheEUI/AAAAAAAAW9E/fDj39FlcfZc/s1600/IMG_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DP_up-GdBhE/VUxZDgheEUI/AAAAAAAAW9E/fDj39FlcfZc/s400/IMG_0076.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I followed the pattern, but was worried it might come out slightly too wide. I kept measuring as I was increasing on the body, and it was coming out at 18 ins. I stopped increasing at 128 sts, but I needn't have bothered as when I came to pressing it, I blocked very lightly, to keep it narrow. It can be pressed wider if need be though, easily accommodating a 36 inch bust. It is shorter than the original, but I like it sitting high on the waist, rather than blousing over. I think I will knit some shoulder pads to square off the shoulders a bit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ur0uZz01ZA/VUyJsEUZqoI/AAAAAAAAW98/9ttFNmQeI5I/s1600/IMG_20150508_104504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ur0uZz01ZA/VUyJsEUZqoI/AAAAAAAAW98/9ttFNmQeI5I/s400/IMG_20150508_104504.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm wearing a turban from <a href="http://thevintagepatternfiles.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/1940s-knitting-knit-yourself-turban.html" target="_blank">The Vintage Pattern Files</a>. It is a <a href="http://thevintagepatternfiles.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/1940s-knitting-knit-yourself-turban.html" target="_blank">1940s pattern</a>, and inspired my own version, the <a href="http://blitzknits.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/free-pattern-friday-herringbone-lace.html" target="_blank">Herringbone Lace Turban</a>. This one I worked in aran/worsted weight wool, instead of the 3 ply stated in the original pattern. I'm also wearing my socks and slippers, which are just out of shot! And while I'm at it, the skirt is from Sainsburys. That's how I shop vintage these days.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jVk6cGDQJTM/VUxZpJZSuBI/AAAAAAAAW9Q/jrDvS53ZqM0/s1600/IMG_0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jVk6cGDQJTM/VUxZpJZSuBI/AAAAAAAAW9Q/jrDvS53ZqM0/s400/IMG_0069.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
My son was very interested in the VE Day parties that I told him about, and I showed him some of the black and white (and colour), footage of children packed around the tables, stuffing their little faces. He couldn't understand that there were no treats to be had, no chocolate, and NO bananas, for over five years. To be honest, I can hardly picture it. I've been thinking about it recently, just trying to imagine how ordinary women would have coped. Especially if they had families. Could I have sent my two away from London? To strangers? A few of our clients at the salon have told me their stories of that time, being about the age my children are now. One of the ladies' mothers' wouldn't send her or her brother away, but kept them in Hendon, running from air raids day and night. Another stayed with her mother just out of London, in Herfordshire, where they had WAAFs billeted with them. They weren't out of danger, though. She remembers many daytime raids while at school, which luckily had a shelter in the basement. I think a lot of children would've quite enjoyed missing a bit of school. I know this little chap below would!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RNqTFHZIA_A/VUxZoQ_141I/AAAAAAAAW9M/iPXJCEzyzEY/s1600/IMG_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RNqTFHZIA_A/VUxZoQ_141I/AAAAAAAAW9M/iPXJCEzyzEY/s320/IMG_0080.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The little photographer in the making</div>
<br />
I missed a post last week, which was when I would have celebrated a year of consistent blogging, but one of our dear puss cats had to be put down. It was a very sad week. I'll catch up with all that next week, along with some pics of me and Simone at the International Club - the knitwear edition.<br />
<br />
I'll leave you with one of my favourite tunes from the end of the war, and a image from one of those VE day parties.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVm8PLGaj3I/VUyI-OgOhsI/AAAAAAAAW90/aC4Io_JbWuM/s1600/vedayparty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVm8PLGaj3I/VUyI-OgOhsI/AAAAAAAAW90/aC4Io_JbWuM/s400/vedayparty.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zs-EuENUfO0" target="_blank">I'm Going To Get Lit Up (When The Lights Go On In London)</a> by Carroll Gibbons & His Orchestra.<br />
<br />
Theodora.Theodora goes Wildhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05087357670115884099noreply@blogger.com11