Saturday, August 13, 2011

Knit For Defense

Knit For Defense a 1941 knitting pattern booklet encouraged knitters to knit sweaters and woolen accessories for servicemen during WWII. "The popular V-neck pullover is welcomed, and accepted in every branch of the Service." There are patterns for gloves, scarf, chest protector, helmet, cap , and socks using Red Heart Knitting Worsted yarn in regulation Service colors.

7 comments:

magnoliasntea said...

Looks like Red Heart has been around a long time. I didn't realize the sweater was accepted in all branches of the military, but I love those old booklets and the patterns.

Susan said...

Those old booklets only cost 10 cents way back then !

Sandy said...

Very cool book, I always enjoy the history of our craft.

THE KNITORIOUS MRS. B said...

I collect those old "learn how to" knit, crochet, tat, etc booklets.

ChaChaneen said...

Susan, you're right! I did some quick research and found it was filmed around Lake Tahoe and a couple other places on the Nevada side. It said the crew had to hose the snow off the ground and trees for one of the scenes because it was supposed to be hot outside. Ooooh burrrr to be actors - they make it look easy! Now I'm going to have to watch the movie! Thanks so much for sharing!

hakucho said...

I have a lot of old needlework books and cookbooks(pamphlet type), but I don't have that one. I do remember hearing that my mother and grandmother used to knit bandages during WWII.

magnoliasntea said...

Hi! To answer your question on the crochet shawl - I used fingering weight yarn, Anne by Schaefer Yarn Co. and started with a G hook. However, my crocheting gets tighter and tighter as I go so after a couple inches I changed to an H hook, then after a few more inches I traded it for a size I hook that the pattern suggests. That's what I have to do to keep my gauge even.
Shifty, ain't I. lol