Knitting Vintage Socks: New Twists on Classic Patterns

by Nancy Bush

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Everything old is new again, and this collection of vintage sock patterns mines Weldon's Practical Needlework, a compilation of newsletters published more than 100 years ago, for some of the best. Twenty-four classic patterns are updated here for modern knitters with the inclusion of gauges, contemporary yarns, modern methods, and modern sizes. Filled with fascinating household and historic tidbits from the era, along with little-known tips such as an unconventional way to shape a heel, this show more historical and gracefully written book evokes a more genteel time while presenting a bevy of colorful socks not seen for nearly a hundred years. After an introduction to a few techniques from the original Weldon's, the patterns begin with an 1887 pair of Gentleman's Shooting Stockings with Fluted Pattern and end with a pair of Ladies' Silk Stockings with Clocks from 1914. Intended for knitters of all levels, this walk down memory lane revives some very classic patterns that may have been gone but are not forgotten. show less

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9 reviews
There are a few lovely stitch patterns in here that I'd like to use someday (Gentleman's Shooting Stocking, Gentleman's Sock, Child's First Sock), but I dislike how each pattern is one size. As a sock noob, I'm looking for someone else to do the stitch count work for me!
I love knitting socks, and I love vintage patterns, so this book was a very exciting find for me. I've only had time to knit one of the patterns so far, the "Gentleman's shooting stockings with fluted pattern," but it was easily the most beautiful pair of socks I've ever made.

I saw some other comments on the spiral binding, and I must admit that it doesn't bother me at all. On the contrary, I find it nice that the book lays flat and isn't constantly closing on your pattern.

A great choice for anyone looking for a new old pattern.
Some very good stitch patterns in here. Unfortunately there are no charts for most of the patterns, and even more unfortunately the spiral binding -- always an awful choice -- is some of the most horrible I've seen; the pages both squeak noisily AND stick when being turned, and how long the paper will stand up to it is a good question.
A lot of socks here.. Easy to follow-patterns and nice pictures!
Beautiful and interesting patterns
Love it, can't wait to knit it!

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9+ Works 4,576 Members
Nancy Bush went to weaving school in Sweden and worked as a nanny in France before opening The Wooly West retail store in 1980. She is the author of five books about knitting including Knitting on the Road: Sock Patterns for the Traveling Knitter, Folk Socks: The History and Techniques of Handknitted Footwear, and Knitted Lace of Estonia: show more Techniques, Patterns, and Traditions. She sold the store in 2000. She currently focuses on her writing and teaching workshops. (Bowker Author Biography) show less

Common Knowledge

Canonical title
Knitting Vintage Socks: New Twists on Classic Patterns
Original publication date
2005
Important events*
Født 1951
*Some information comes from Common Knowledge in other languages. Click "Edit" for more information.

Classifications

Genres
Home & Garden, Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, Art & Design
DDC/MDS
746.4320432Arts & recreationDrawing & decorative artsFashion Design / Weaving, Knitting, EmbroideryNeedlework and handworkKnitting, crocheting, tattingKnittingStandard subdivisions
LCC
TT825 .B894TechnologyHandicrafts. Arts and craftsHandicrafts. Arts and craftsHome arts. Homecrafts
BISAC

Statistics

Members
1,185
Popularity
21,030
Reviews
9
Rating
(4.22)
Languages
English
Media
Paper
ISBNs
1
ASINs
4