Fine Things for Plain Occasions: Patterns Inspired by Vintage Etiquette Guides - Hardcover

Hunter Hammersen

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0984998268 ISBN 13: 9780984998265

Publisher: Pantsville Press, 2015

Synopsis

I've been collecting vintage etiquette guides since I was a kid. They're an absolute delight to read, and they do a tremendous job of reassuring you that you are not the only person to wonder how to handle yourself or what to wear in a tricky social situation.

It may seem like a bit of a leap to go from a collection of etiquette books to a book of knitting patterns. But once you spend a bit of time with them, you'll see it's the most natural thing in the world. These guides were written before books were filled with page after page of color pictures, but their authors still had very distinct opinions about what you should be wearing. That means the books are full of marvelous descriptions that you can interpret however you choose.

That's just what I've done here. I've started with delightful quotes from some of my most treasured books and used them to design a whole host of different patterns. Each includes the quote that inspired it (because they are far too delicious not to share), and each pattern's name is taken from its quote. (For those of you wondering, the title of the book is also drawn from a particularly amusing line in one of the books.)

And, while the inspiration for the patterns may have come from vintage sources, the pieces themselves are perfectly suited to today's knitter. There's not a petticoat, corset, or lace handkerchief in the bunch. Instead you'll find socks, shawls, mitts, and hats that fit perfectly in a modern wardrobe.

About this title

About the Author

Hunter Hammersen didn't really like knitting the first time she tried it. She didn't much care for it the second time either. It wasn't till the third time, and the discovery of knitted socks, that she was properly smitten. Once she realized she could make up her own patterns, her fate was sealed. She's been busy designing ever since.

Review

All the patterns in this book are sourced from vintage style. Throughout the book are quotes from the 1800s and early 1900s pertaining to etiquette and linked to the patterns, i.e. a snippet on gloves, or showing ankles. The instructions seem easy to follow and type size is quite large, so no straining your eyes. The patterns include socks, gloves, shawls, hats and slippers. I like the shawl patterns best, but the slippers are neat and really all the patterns are good. There are 15 knitting patterns in all, bringing back a flavour of classic knitting for everyday and special occasions. Charts are included where necessary and there are professional tips too. A handsome book you will want to keep. * Karen Platt- yarnsandfabrics.co.uk * Wow this is one book that lives up to it's title. I could spend hours just flicking through the book and looking at the beautiful projects. The designs use vintage looks that are ideal for a modern wardrobe. The socks are to die for. No one could not feel special with a pair of the socks that are in this book. Each of the designs comes from a quote in an etiquette book. Hunter has brought these quotes to life and made them into the most amazing designs. Each of the projects is in written terms and there are helpful hints to guide you on your way. I would think that this book is designed more for and experienced knitter. Everything from cables to lace knitting are used. With 15 projects this book is sure to keep you busy. You could either make them for yourself or make them as gifts. I am sure anyone receiving any of the designs out of this book will be extremely grateful. The designs are just so special. * Crochet Addict UK *

Edition details

• Publisher: Pantsville Press
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 0984998268
• ISBN 13: 9780984998265
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 122