Crochet Square Pattern, Mail Order Design 7215

July 6, 2017, 3:02 pm

≫ Next: Crochet Basket Planter Patterns, Mail Order Designs

It's quite frequent that Mail Order Design patterns re-use the same numbers. Very seldom, however, have I found the same number used on similar patterns. For example, a single number might be used for a crocheted doily and a knitted pullover, but unusual for two knitted pullovers.

And then today, I came across a three-fer, which I'll just call highly unusual. It revolves around Mail Order Design 7215.

Alice Brooks 7215, Crochet Medallion

Alice Brooks 7215, Crocheted Squares

Design 7215, Crochet Square

These had me by surprise and I had to go through the listings a couple times to make sure I had the correct patterns attached to the pictures.

And that's it ... my first Mail Order discovered three-fer. Oh, take this back to 'somewhat' typical, there is a fourth Design 7215 as well .... but for a doily.

Design 7215, Crochet Pineapple Doilies in six sizes.

Ok, now that I've got this one figured out, I'll head back to work. Thanks for dropping by.

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Crochet Basket Planter Patterns, Mail Order Designs

July 9, 2017, 7:42 am

≫ Next: Mans Crochet Cardigan Pullover, Mail Order Patterns

≪ Previous: Crochet Square Pattern, Mail Order Design 7215

I've been processing vintage patterns for the last 5 years and have recently realized that all of the Crochet Planter Baskets patterns are Mail Order Designs. I've not yet had occasion to come across one in the standard pattern leaflet books, or magazines. There are a variety of the Mail Order variety, vintage 1960's and 1970's. The only guess I can think up is Macrame, which become very popular in this same time period. Perhaps these Mail Order Designs were to compete with that market. Again, that is just a guess.

Here are a few examples of the Mail Order Basket Designs.

Design 653, Parasol Crochet Planter. A nice design at 12 wide and 15 inches deep will be more interesting than standard shapes .... assuming however you can find some kind of put to your plant with the rod down the middle !

Swan Centerpiece Crochet Pattern Design 530 Motif that is suggested as both a Table Centerpiece as well as a plant hanger.

Pineapple Basket Crochet Pattern featuring the always popular pineapples. This pattern goes a step further and gives directions for small and large daisy flowers to add to your basket.

Design 7068; Crocheted Dog and Cat planters: These may be more appropriate on a windowsill; just 3-1/2 inches wide and tall, but quite cute.

There are, of course, more Designs in the shop, if you'd like to browse.

Thanks for dropping by,

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Mans Crochet Cardigan Pullover, Mail Order Patterns

July 9, 2017, 11:30 am

≫ Next: Knitted Afghan Patterns with Leaf Motif

≪ Previous: Crochet Basket Planter Patterns, Mail Order Designs

I've said this a number of times, and I'm here saying it yet again. Many of the mail order crochet (and knit) patterns are simple variations of each other. You know, have a base pattern and make a slight change, and now you have another pattern to market. Here's the most recent example; this one in the 'mans' category.

Design 901, Mans Crocheted Sweater: Mans Raglan Sleeved Pullover with Color Band Stripes and raised rib type pattern stitch; size 36 to 42.

Design 7140, Mans Cardigan: Dito, dito, dito with the exception of the front button band, converting the attractive pullover into a mans cardigan.

The pullover Design fell into the original Laura Wheeler series, and the cardigan in the Alice Brooks number series. They are both, of course, the same company.

Since there are two, I have no doubt there may be more. I have several hundred more Design patterns to work my way through and will add to this post when/should I come across.

Okay, that's all .... I'm back to work.

Thanks for dropping by,

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Knitted Afghan Patterns with Leaf Motif

July 21, 2017, 6:08 pm

≫ Next: Dream Doily, Not the Sara Doily Rug Pattern

≪ Previous: Mans Crochet Cardigan Pullover, Mail Order Patterns

Most everyone loves an afghan on the couch and or bed. It's a piece of comfort just waiting to be called upon. Wrapped around our shoulders, or feet; it is warm and soothing. I have a fair number of knitted afghans in the shop, but I think of all of them, I like the ones with the leaf motif the best. Whether plain or complex, there is just something so organic about the leaf that calls to me. Let me share a couple of my favorites with you.

Nantucket Afghan from Spinnerin: This design is also one of the shops favorite. The thick texture and diamond blocks are such a pleasing combination.

Leaf Afghan from Columbia Minerva: This design has an understated beauty, knit in contrasting shades with leaf and cable panels.

Laurel Leaf Afghan from Bertrand: This design is a colorful bit of simplicity, knit in three colors in an almost geometric way.

Lattice Leaf Afghan from Coats & Clark's: This beauty is panels of leaves worked in rows that give a lattice type effect. The design is knit in one color and has full lush fringe.

There are a few others, of course, but these are four definitely my favorite.

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

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Dream Doily, Not the Sara Doily Rug Pattern

August 1, 2017, 5:00 am

≫ Next: Crochet Barbie Fashion Doll Clothes, Mail Order Designs

≪ Previous: Knitted Afghan Patterns with Leaf Motif

Over the last couple days, I've had two individuals lodge complaints that I've unethically copied the Sara Doily Rug Pattern from Hennas Boutique. In these two cases, one purchased this pattern from this shop, while the second purchased from my Artfire shop. Well, I want to clarify, in case there are others thinking the same .....

This is the Dream Doily Rug. It is a public domain pattern that comes from Coats and Clark's Book 184 - Rug Yarn Bazaar from 1968. I've had this pattern in my shop for the last 5 years.

Crochet Doily Rug Pattern - "SARA" 37 inch rug - PDF

This is the Sara Doily Rug, an original design of Henna's Boutique. It does appear quite similar to Coats & Clark's Dream Doily pattern, however, I have not purchased the Sara Doily Rug, so I cannot say where the differences may be.

I do, however, want to say that the Dream Doily Rug in my shop is NOT a copy of the SARA Doily Rug, and if you are wanting to purchase the Sara Doily Rug, please follow the above link. I am not going to refund purchases because it is not the Sara Doily Rug.

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

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Crochet Barbie Fashion Doll Clothes, Mail Order Designs

September 2, 2017, 7:47 pm

≫ Next: Crochet Pineapple Doily Patterns, A Category of Their Own

≪ Previous: Dream Doily, Not the Sara Doily Rug Pattern

It was a glorious year for little girls. It was 1959 and Mattel released a creation of Ruth Handler called the Barbie Doll. Little girls across America were instantly enchanted and the rest is history.

As the Barbie Doll arrived to each home, the next essential need was the wardrobe. Which means, of course, loving Moms pulled out the cloth, scissors and yarn and started sewing, crocheting and knitting clothes fashion outfits for the beloved doll. This, of course, drove the pattern companies to start issuing patterns for those outfit.

I have several of these patterns from the early 1960's found mainly in over-the-counter magazines (like McCalls Needlecraft), as well as several Mail Order Designs. Here, let me show you a few.

Design 525 - Crocheted Bride and Bridemaid's Gowns. Just about every little girl would want these outfits.

Sweet Teen Bride is another bridal outfit (or great party dress without the veil). Did you notice the pineapples?. This pattern was issued as a Coat's and Clarks Leaflet.

Design 199 - Mail Order Pattern - Most likely Anne Cabots. This Design gives us a coat, top, skirt, hat and two choice dresses.

Design 7362, Crocheted Doll's Wardrobe. This Mail Order Design is in the Alice Brooks number series, and gives mix and match options consistent with the times .... notice the ripple poncho.

Tea Time Ensemble - This pattern from The Workbasket features more variations on mix and match options.

Just for fun, a little Barbie Trivia ...

Birthdate: March 9, 1959
Born: Willows, Wisconsin (a fictional place)
First Outfit: One Piece Swimsuit
First Hairstyle: Ponytail

I have no doubt a fair number more Fashion Doll patterns will be added to this small collection as I have a a HUGE amount of patterns I've yet to work my way through. The number will, however, be limited by what is in public domain; i.e. 1959 into early 1960's.

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

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Crochet Pineapple Doily Patterns, A Category of Their Own

September 20, 2017, 2:10 pm

≫ Next: Crochet Pillow Options Include Doilies

≪ Previous: Crochet Barbie Fashion Doll Clothes, Mail Order Designs

I was browsing around in the Doilies category looking for a specific pattern, when it dawned on me that there were 34 pages (18 patterns per page). Now, that's quite a bit to weed through when looking for something specific. Which got me to thinking that it might also be quite a chore for the customer. So, it called for breaking the patterns into two categories. It didn't take long to decide the dividing point would be pineapples. There are a Huge number of Pineapple Doilies.

How many ... well, at this point in time, 395. There quite a bit of variety going on:

Some are quite simple, like this pretty Cloverleaf doilyfrom Coats & Clarks

And some are downright elegant like this Mail Order 5186 Masterpiece - Thank you Anne Cabot

And you might classify a few as discrete as in this Sea Spray Ruffled Doily.

Not many, but there's a couple that you could call colorful, like this Pineapple delight doily from Lily Mills. Of course, with planning, any doily could be crocheted 'colorful'.

Well, I could go on and one here. You know, large, medium, small, scalloped, etc. etc. etc., but I'm sure you've got the point.

So, if you are looking for a specific Pineapple Doily, or just love to look at these gems, feel free to drop by the new category ..

Crochet Doilies - Pineapple

Thanks for dropping by,

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Crochet Pillow Options Include Doilies

September 21, 2017, 5:58 am

≫ Next: Smart Stoles to Knit and Crochet

≪ Previous: Crochet Pineapple Doily Patterns, A Category of Their Own

Don't forget that doilies also make marvelous pillows for a room that is on the feminine side. There are an almost endless array of motifs, and sizes as well.

This lovely pineapple pillow was created from a centerpiece doily created from National Needlecraft Leaflet A-126; all the way back to 1939.

This Enchantment Doilyis also a centerpiece at 19-1/2 inches. Combine it with a dark, or brightly colored fabric and it would become a marvelous couch accent.

This Dainty Doily, at 26 inches, is complex and eye catching! The official "Dainty Doily name" seems a bit misplaced!

Now, the pillow doesn't have to be round ... this beauty of a medallion pattern to create theDew Drop Doily Mat can be created at sizes of your choice and also has the WOW factor.

This pattern is available as a Free Download.

Choose your doily pattern based on pillow size if you are using purchased pillow stock, or create a customized size with Poly-Fill. The doily is stitched to the pillow top. If you'd like, you could also use 'Wonder-Under to further secure your fiber art to the fabric.

There's a ton of crochet doilies, as well as crochet squares/medallions in the shop, should you care to browse.

Thanks for dropping by,

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Smart Stoles to Knit and Crochet

October 6, 2017, 6:35 pm

≫ Next: Lily Mills Book 1300, 42 Crochet Patterns

≪ Previous: Crochet Pillow Options Include Doilies

I'm taking a short break from fine-tuning the shop to work a few leaflets.

First up in the stack is Coats and Clark's Leaflet W-547.

Here we have three pretty stoles, The middle in knitted, the beauty of the left is a combination of knit/crochet and the one on the right is crocheted. It was when I turned the leaflet to the backside and saw the pattern titles -- Judy C-154, Deborah C-155 and Donna C-156 that I realized I'd seen this line-up before.

A quick browse around quickly identified it ... the models and the naming conventions line up with Coats and Clark's Book 296 - Festive Stoles and Blouses. In this booklet, the pattern numbers start up with No C-157.

This leaflet / book combination is just a bit out of the norm. Most often, pattern leaflets carry the same number designation as the corresponding book. And .. the leaflet pattern is typically a design from the book itself.

I wonder, if perhaps, this Leaflet W-547 was positioned near the Pattern Book 296 as a promotion.
A question I'll never know the answer too (this is vintage 1952 ... older than me). Perhaps one of you know.

Thanks for dropping by.
Lorrie

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Lily Mills Book 1300, 42 Crochet Patterns

November 4, 2017, 5:26 pm

≫ Next: Hand Knits for Men, Spinnerin Volume 141

≪ Previous: Smart Stoles to Knit and Crochet

I've been so busy transferring the shop from Todays Treasure to Vintage Knit Crochet that I haven't taken much time to process patterns since June. But the transfer is close to complete, and I'm going to relax a bit and resume processing a couple patterns each day. I went to the 'pending cabinet' and out came ....

Lily Mills Book 1300 - Crochet - 42 Items of Beauty and Lasting Quality.

Illustrated ... Explicit Instructions

I've had this book in my collection for several years. I recall when I first received it receiving a good chuckle from the "Illustrated Explicit Instructions'.

This pattern book takes us back to 1945. It's a bit of a 'no-frills' muted black and white book, as would be typical for being in the middle of WWII. Surprisingly enough, there are no WWII war bond advertisements. The book offers us a bit of this and that ... something for everyone, and then a little more. I'm not going to add all 42; in fact I processed just 20, but even that's just too much of a blog post, put I'll put in a few and supply a link to see the rest. Ready? Here we go.

Hit Parade - Baby Set No 1: This easy knitted baby set includes a jacket, bonnet and sweet little socks. I like the addition of the socks, versus the typical booties.

Baby Talk : This little set includes a baby bonnet and matching mitts. Both are ribbon laced and sized for baby at 3 - 6 months

This Crochet Flower Picture is an unusual piece. The flowers and separately crocheted and then tacked in place to fabric covered cardboard and framed. Perhaps an extension of crewel work that was so popular in this time period. I've not processed this pattern, but if you just 'must' have it, let me know.

Doily Set - Place Mat and Glass Doily - This graceful mat set is certainly out of the ordinary. Flower petals and leaves surround a linen center.

Darned Filet Centerpiece, 14 x 24 inches, in the marvelous rose scroll motif and be worked in Filet Crochet as well.

Handbags and Coin Purses are billed as a Mother Daughter set ... perfectly sized for each, and a quite easy pattern.

Fascinator Head Scarf ... as 1940's as it gets! The flowers on this design are crocheted separately and sewn in place.

Gay Espardilles - Crocheted House Slippers and attached to cork bases. They are sized to fit and do indeed look comfortable, as well as fashionable (with those ankle ties).

Crocheted Toys ... a ball and a bean bag.

This cute piece is a hat shaped pincushion with lattice edge and ribbon ties. In the 1940's, pincushions were for hat pins as well.

This pattern book was issued as a promotion for Lily Sil-tone Mercerized Crochet Cotton and Lily Pearl Cotton. All of the patterns call for these threads.

There are a few other beauties in this book, if you'd care to take a look. The patterns I did not process were primarily edgings and insignificant bits (like the hat pin heads pictured above) .... that's how they go all the way to 42!.

Hope you enjoyed the pattern book review.

Thanks for dropping by.

Lorrie

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Hand Knits for Men, Spinnerin Volume 141

November 15, 2017, 2:33 pm

≫ Next: Serviceman's Knitting Patterns, 1951

≪ Previous: Lily Mills Book 1300, 42 Crochet Patterns

I was scanning a few booklets, when I came to this Spinnerin Men's Book. To the head of the stack it immediately went. Men's patterns, in comparison to women's is so minor that they deserve to be handled first. So, for my 'next up' book review ....

Spinnerin 141 - Hand Knits for Men was issued in 1957. Frequently pattern books are issued for a specific brand of yarn as a promotion. In the case of this pattern book, however, it appears Spinnerin featured a number of their different yarns. Perhaps their 'most popular' yarns for the time period.

Style No 4046 - V-Neck Cardigan graces the front cover.

Style No 4033 - Sleeveless Cardigan Pattern, V-Neck and slightly below waist length

Style No 4035 - Sleeveless pullover (on right) features narrow stripes in two colors with contrast bands and trim.

Style No 4031 - Mans Sleeveless Pullover in two tones of Nylane Fingering Yarn, with contrast trim.

Style No 4045 - Mans Cabled Pullover pattern has a defining touch of 'just a bit' of contrast color trim on the V-neck.

Style No 4063 Mans Pullover with patterned yoke features cable and pebble stitches.

No 4036 - Mans Raglan Sleeved Pullover with ribbed edges. A casual design perfect for every (winter day) wear.

No 4030 - Mans Sleeveless Pullover Pattern is hip length, v-neck and contrast color bands.

Style 4041 (on left), mans sleeveless pullover with tri-cable bands.

Style 4048 (on right), a different variation of the sleeveless pullover, in an easy basketweave type stitch.

Style No 4042 - Mans Pullover Vest Pattern, below hip length in easy pattern stitch.

Style No 4043 - Mans knitted vest with slot pockets, lowered v-neck, below waist length.

Style No 4044 - Mans two tone checked sweater with contrast sleeves and ribbed bands.

Style No 4028 - Pullover features extended shoulders and a grand buttoned yoke collar.

Basic Mens Sweater include sleeveless, crew neck and raglan sleeve options with or without turtleneck.

Two pairs of mans basic knitted socks.

Style No 4013 (on left) and 4047 (on right) - mens patterned pullovers. (Not processed as the charts had been scribbled all over).

And, gracing the back cover, Style No 4029, Mans Pullover (with an interesting wavy ribbed pattern stitch).

All of the patterns are written for size small (36-38), with changes for medium (40-42) and large (44-46). There are nice designs in this book, albeit some a little short for todays' fashions. Perhaps you have the skills to lengthen. The materials referenced in the book, of course are outdated (Spinnerin no longer in business), however finding substitutes should not be too difficult.

Hope you enjoyed the book review.
Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

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Serviceman's Knitting Patterns, 1951

December 31, 2017, 2:42 pm

≫ Next: The Crocheted Pineapple Cape

≪ Previous: Hand Knits for Men, Spinnerin Volume 141

It was post World War II, and into the second year of the Korean Conflict and Smart Knitting decided to run a feature on desired military fashion.

Now, who knows if they really 'surveyed the boys themselves" .. I'd think not, but still it's a fun retro look at 1951 Military fashions.

Square Neck Pullover; an easy knit in a combination of stockinette and garter stitches. This pattern is available as a Free Download.

Sleeveless Pullover, waist length with V-neckline is knit in Beehive Scotch Fingering Yarn.

Spiral Knit Socks, sized 10-1/2 to 12-1/2, for those Officer dress-up needs. This pair is surprisingly easy.

Turtleneck Pullover, sized 36 to 44, modeled with that (perhaps weather) blimp in the background. Notice the Navy pants with the button flaps and slight bells. I wonder when the style changed?

Long Sleeve Pullover, with the standard V-neck and ribbed edges.

Now, I don't figure that many (if any) of these patterns will sell, but the photo themselves were worthy well work the day spent processing and listing. Did you notice that the model in each photo is slightly characterized, versus standard snapshot?

I hope you enjoyed the '1951 Military Fashion Show' as much as I did.
Thanks for dropping by,

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The Crocheted Pineapple Cape

January 5, 2018, 1:14 pm

≫ Next: A Quite Popular Crochet Pineapple Doily

≪ Previous: Serviceman's Knitting Patterns, 1951

The pineapple stitch in doilies have been a favorite design for .... well, a very long time. But clothing, that appears to be a different story. I've processed over 5000 patterns for the shop, and of those, find that pineapple stitch in clothing became prevalent in the late 1950's, with the Mail Order patterns (Laura Wheeler and Alice Brooks) leading the charge.

As was typical, the Mail Order patterns built on each design ... i.e., create a pattern and if it proves popular, start making slight deviations in another pattern .. repeat, repeat, repeat.

Crocheted Pineapple Cape Pattern with small collar

Design 833 - "If you want a lovely cover for chilly weather, why don't you crochet one yourself. This little cape in the lacy pineapple pattern is easy to crochet" 1955

Short Pineapple Cape, Capelet Pattern, Design 7249

Design 7429- This crocheted pineapple cape is a close match with the variation being a different collar.

Long Crochet Cape Pattern in Pineapple Stitch

Pattern 7329 - Multiple variations in this pretty design.

Crochet Pineapple Cape in easy shell stitch

Design 617- "Graceful cape to star atop fashions -- in pineapple design combined with easy shell stitch".

Crochet Pineapple Cape Pattern with open yoke

Design 716 -"Rows and rows of pineapples topped by open crochet yoke and band collar - a pretty capelet for any season wear".

I still have several hundred Mail Order Design patterns to process and, I have no doubt, there will be more pineapple capes.

Thanks for dropping by,

Lorrie

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A Quite Popular Crochet Pineapple Doily

March 31, 2018, 7:21 pm

≫ Next: Leeward Mills, Crocheted Nylon Accessories Leaflet

≪ Previous: The Crocheted Pineapple Cape

Some of the Mail Order Design patterns were more popular than others. But how can you tell which ones were the 'most popular'? That one is easy .... by how many times it was duplicated.

Lets take this marvelous Mail Order Pineapple Doily as an example. The doily, depending upon materials used, can be made in six different sizes ranging from a small of 11 all the way to 25 inches in diameter.

And, apparently the readers loved it ....

Design 869 (Laura Wheeler) was released in April of 1951.  "Crocheting this doily is time well spent. Stunning in two colors; start the second color on the second pineapple round". It was ran again in 1954.

Design 7223 (Alice Brooks) was published in 1957. "Crochet with an heirloom future - as centerpiece, placemat set - prize winning doilies. Lovely in two colors, starting second color in second pineapple round". It was ran again in 1959.

And it was released in a separate syndicate column as American Weekly 3136. (I don't know the dates or description), but would assume it was in the same time span ... or, based on the paper quality, no later than 1961. I'm just beginning to understand that American Weekly was apparently associated with Readers Mail.

And that's how the it went for the popular designs. They are released, and if sales are more than typical, they are the sister name -- Laura Wheeler or Alice Brooks and even more sales were made.

I'd wonder how frequently the fiber artists buying these patterns discovered they bought the same Design twice !

Okay, I'll get back to work now. Thanks for dropping by.

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Leeward Mills, Crocheted Nylon Accessories Leaflet

April 6, 2018, 5:10 pm

≫ Next: A Very Popular Crochet Rug Pattern

≪ Previous: A Quite Popular Crochet Pineapple Doily

In my stack of loose pattern leaflets (wish I could come across these more often!), is a two page pattern pamphlet from Leeward Mills.

Nylon Accessories to wear ... to give. Nylon ... yes, the patterns for these designs are crocheted in nylon threads. This leaflet originated in the 1940's; wool was scarce and nylon became a regular commodity in the crochet community. And, after WWII ended, a huge surplus from parachute production remained. (Note: It is still available today in the same sizes!).

The pattern on the front page gives three insertion, with matching edgings. These insertions were designed for hankerchief ... dense and luxurious.

The Classic Bag and Beanie grace and inside page. Worked in Nylon size 5, I'd think these accessories would be on the stiffer side.

This narrow tie, in Size 5 Nylon thread might make an interesting addition as a scarf to your favorite button-down. The pattern is available as a Free Download in the shop.

And then .... the pamphlet closes with the Leeward Mills Quality Guarantee, which was typically printed on the label of their products.

Hope you enjoyed the touch of 1940's accessory fashions. Thanks for dropping by.

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A Very Popular Crochet Rug Pattern

July 5, 2017, 2:39 pm

≫ Next: Vintage Stuffed Cat Crochet Patterns

≪ Previous: Leeward Mills, Crocheted Nylon Accessories Leaflet

Most days I randomly pull two of the 'pending' mail order patterns to process for the shop. One of the two today was .....

The American Weekly 3142. Well, I immediately knew that I've processed this pattern before. In fact 'a couple times before'.

Why does this happen? Well, I'd venture to say ... because it was a popular pattern with many sales. Laura Wheeler and Alice Brooks were owned by the same company -- Needlecraft Services. Now, I'm not sure which came first, but the company issued the rug pattern as Laura Wheeler 579, and then again as Alice Brooks 7323. It was then again issued simply as Design 7329 .... also the same company. The American Weekly did not create any original patterns; they purchased their patterns from Needlework Services. And, as this pattern was apparently quite popular, it makes sense they would want to market it as well.

And there you have it .... the same pattern marketed under four different names and numbers. I have (purchased and) entered all four of these patterns individually in my shop. At first, when I started finding pattern repeats in the Design series patterns I though about just listing one. But then, I realized that customers searching for a specific pattern by number would not know all the options. And thus ... this pattern is in my shop four times.

And there you go .... tonight's trivia. Thanks for dropping by,

Lorrie

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Vintage Stuffed Cat Crochet Patterns

July 6, 2017, 4:06 am

≫ Next: Knitted Halter Top with Hand Painted Motifs

≪ Previous: A Very Popular Crochet Rug Pattern

Did you know that stuffed cat crochet patterns existed before Amigurumi became popular. Well, of course they did. Fiber artists have been making stuffed toys ... cats included ... since ... well, I don't really know, but I'm betting hundreds (perhaps thousands) of years.

I found myself thinking about this today as I was entering the latest Mail Order Cat pattern into the shop. A quick look showed that I had a number of stuffed cat or kitten patterns, all from the 1950's and 1960's time period.

Design 5686 gives us a kitten crocheted in Angora Yarn. This particular design was also issued under No 102, by Anne Cabot.

Another Mail Order pattern, Design 919, is a looped stitch kitty that stands 8 1/2 inches tall.

These dancing duo party cats pattern appeared as National Needlecraft Bureau No 2521 in the early 1950's

This black cat (paired up with a bunny) was also issued by National Needlecraft Bureau - No PC 5281. I assume this pamphlet was a reproduction from a Spool Cotton Co. pattern, as they typically used the P.C. number series in the 1940's.

And, one more pattern from National Needlecraft Bureau - P.C. 4976 gives us a pouncing black cat paired up with a sweet puppy.

And one more selection from Columbia Minerva. This gives us a cat (one the far left), paired up with a barn yard of other animals, and a rug as well.

And that's it .... in the shop for now. I have no doubt there will be many more to come, however, as I must have another 100 books or more to get processed. If you are looking for a crocheted kitty project, hope you find just what you are looking for !

Thanks for dropping by.

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Knitted Halter Top with Hand Painted Motifs

June 24, 2017, 5:31 am

≫ Next: Wards Knit to Fit Sizing Chart

≪ Previous: Vintage Stuffed Cat Crochet Patterns

Although I oversee a Knit and Crochet Pattern Shop, I'm actually a 'FABRIC' fiber artist. I paint on fabric frequently, but never gave thought to painting on knitted or crocheted pieces. Until now ...

I was transferring this cute halter top pattern, when the painted (not embroidered) motif jumped out at me.

Stencilled Knit Halter Pattern -- was presented to us in the 1951 issue of Modern Knitting magazine. It was one of those 'why didn't I think of that' moments'.

With the wide variety of fabric paints now available in our markets, the design opportunities become limitless. And, what a marvelous way to update an 'older' garment. Used Plaid paints to add writings, narrow stripes or, perhaps, contrast edges. Or, regular tubes of fabric paints to stencil, as in the case of this pattern.

These are the basic directions offered. Now you could, of course, use the tubes of acrylic paints as well, but they will leave a bit of a rough tooth on the garment.

Perhaps you'll give it a try? Be it on a knitted garment, or a favored t-shirt, pair of jeans, etc.

Thanks for dropping by.

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Wards Knit to Fit Sizing Chart

April 30, 2017, 1:54 pm

≫ Next: Square Centerpiece Crochet Doily

≪ Previous: Knitted Halter Top with Hand Painted Motifs

Out this leaflet came last night from one of my 'pending' processing stacks. And, lo-and-behold, I had this leaflet already reformatted and in a PDF file. And, Jees, it was dated 2015. Now, that's another classic example of how I get sidetracked.

Back to this leaflet .... It was issued by Montgomery Wards and is a chart to assist those wanting to increase or decrease size when knitting tops or pullovers in the 14, 16, 18, 20, 40 and 42 size range.

There are three charts covering where to measure and changes for each size, as well as instructions on how to follow the charts.

Now, I do not know how to knit, so these charts are not totally understandable to me, but I would assume they may be quite helpful to others. If you are interested, I've listed them as aFree Download in my shop. Just put them in your basket and go to checkout. (It's not necessary to fill out the address info).

Thanks for dropping by.
Lorrie

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Square Centerpiece Crochet Doily

April 26, 2017, 5:37 pm

≫ Next: Crochet Pineapple Dress; What a beauty

≪ Previous: Wards Knit to Fit Sizing Chart

Most of you will remember the 'old fashioned' TV set. You know, that large console that was in your, or perhaps Grandmother' living room. Or, for you younger folks, in old nostalgic movies. Big square or oblong pieces of furniture, most frequently with legs.

But these sets fulfilled more than just TV watching, the top surface became yet another place for the woman of the house to merchandise objects of choice. Here one would often find picture frames, vases, pieces of art, etc.

And, of course, the display often included the doily; a perfect showcase to whatever might gather. Women around the world crocheted pieces to adorn their TV's. The patterns were frequently called doilies, runners or scarves. One company -- Needlework Services -- (Mail Order Design patterns) took it a step further and actually referred to them as TV covers.

There were a numbers of these design patterns ....

Design 7041 - in three sizes; 19, 21 and 32 inches

Design 7020 - in three sizes; 19, 21 and 32 inches

Design 7226 - in four sizes; 20, 23, 34 and 52 inches

Now, the classic TV Doily has become a thing of the past, but these Designs live on. They are still the staging for beloved items, only the table has changed. We now call them Large Centerpiece Square Doilies, or, in some cases small tablecloths.

These patterns, which I adore even thought I do not crochet, are each a small piece of our history. Are there more, I ya .... MORE TV COVERS!

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

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Crochet Pineapple Dress; What a beauty

April 21, 2017, 5:42 pm

≫ Next: Mail Order Knitted Dress Pattern

≪ Previous: Square Centerpiece Crochet Doily

I found the newspaper clipping in a stack of pattern leaflets I'd purchased off of Ebay.

It's quite an elegant design, and obviously a fair amount of work in Mercerized Crochet Cotton. But, what a beauty!.

I've searched Google-land and can't find anything that matches to this pattern. The pattern is PC 1021. Now, I've seen this prefix series many times (PC), and it's typically a designation for 1940's/1950's from Spool Cotton Company. On many occasions, SPC allowed the National Needlecraft Bureau to market their patterns as well. Since this is obviously a mail ordered pattern, I'd assume it would be National Needlecraft.

Of particular fun is the caption of unknown writer -- "Isn't this a pretty dress. I'd love to have one like this. Wished I could crochet".

Hope you enjoy the vintage advertisement. Thanks for dropping by.

Lorrie

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Mail Order Knitted Dress Pattern

October 4, 2016, 6:48 am

≫ Next: Spinnerin Handknit Sweaters for Men Vol 124

≪ Previous: Crochet Pineapple Dress; What a beauty

As if frequently the case with the Mail Order pattern, I picked up Design 7031 to process for the shop thinking .... do I already have this pattern. The hunt was on. (Particularly since this is a huge pattern that takes several hours to process and I wouldn't want to spend time on it twice!).

Now the search function in my shop isn't very grand (wish Highwire fixes it someday), but diligence paid off, and there it was ... Design 501. The same; No. Similar; Absolutely.

Both are nice A-Line designs with comfortable fitting short sleeves and back zipper closure. Both are knit in Fingering Yarn and Misses sized 32-34 and 36-38.

Mail Order Dress Knitting Pattern Design 501

Design 501 - Knitted Dress

Knitted Dress Pattern with Leaf Panels, Mail Order Design 7031

Design 7031 - Knitted Dress

Did you readily spot the differences? Well, the first pattern has just one raised leaf panel, and the second has two. And, less obvious, the first and second have a slight collar variation. And, that's it.

I come across this type of 'differences' constantly in the Mail Order patterns. Pattern A has a slight difference to Pattern B. I imagine this partially occurred because of the constant business requirement to have 'new' patterns in the newspaper every week. I'd also think, like an idea, there can be so many variations on a good design.

These are both intermediate to advanced Designs; the directions are extensive. But, what great designs that I'd think you'd want to wear for years.

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

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Spinnerin Handknit Sweaters for Men Vol 124

August 13, 2016, 5:34 pm

≫ Next: Crochet Doilies Pattern Lily Leaflet D-11

≪ Previous: Mail Order Knitted Dress Pattern

This pattern book takes us back to 1954 with a variety of men's designs fashioned by Caroline Sadoux. It is jam packed with 20 knitting patterns, which include just a touch of crochet here and there. Typically, pattern books were published as promotion for a specific line of yarns. This book, however, more represents the line of products sold by Spinnerin for this time period -- 1954.

One might say that men's knitted fashions are just 'mens knitted fashions'. But this is only partially true. The primary difference between 1950's and current men's fashions is the length; below waist versus hip length or below.

No 1241 - sleeveless pullover graces the cover. Another sign of the times -- this gentleman is smoking.

No 1244 - Another sleeveless Pullover -- being modeled by a Wally (Leave it to Beaver) look-alike.

No 1247 -Another Vest, but this one a most distinguished design with cross-over front.

No 12410 - Mans pullover is a classic, nicely understated detail with extra wide ribbed bands.

No 12415 - This mans' pullover is a simple design that becomes a standout with the ribbed arms and collar variation.

No 12417 - Mans Pullover has an attractive Aztec motif stripe across the neckline and down the arms. It's quite eye-catching.

Now, this leaflet actually has 20 men's knitting patterns in all. You'll find them scattered in the Knitted Men's Section in the shop, if you'd like to view more. Now, if you have the skills (I do not) to add length to these designs, there are some good selections for your upcoming projects.

Now, I'll move on to the next book in my 'pending stack'.

Thanks for dropping by,

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Crochet Doilies Pattern Lily Leaflet D-11

June 3, 2016, 4:58 pm

≫ Next: Scintillating Pineapples Crochet Pattern Set

≪ Previous: Spinnerin Handknit Sweaters for Men Vol 124

I've been working my way through a stack of leaflets the last couple of days. Near the end, I came across two individual leaflet patterns with the same number. Now, I've found this a frequent occurrence with the Design Mail Order patterns, but nowhere else.

The case at hand are leaflets from Lily Mills. Leaflets are numbered D-11.

Rock Rose Ruffled Doilyis my guess the older of the two. I'm placing late 1940's, or perhaps early 1950's, based on the paper quality. It's a lovely ruffled doily, with a repeating rose central motif.
This is followed by:

Pineapple Centerpiece, estimated as early 1960's. It's a large, 18 inch diameter, beauty with tall proud ruffles. It also bears the 'Design of the Season' logo, leading me to believe that Lily has a series of leaflets in the series. I do not, however, have any others .... I'll have to keep a watch.

So, these leave me to ponder. Was this just a random mistake, an oversight? Or, will I start seeing pattern number repeats as is done in the Mail Order patterns. Of course, I don't. know.

Thanks for dropping by for my random musings.
Lorrie

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Scintillating Pineapples Crochet Pattern Set

June 2, 2016, 1:20 pm

≪ Previous: Crochet Doilies Pattern Lily Leaflet D-11

Now, I've written a number of blog posts about Mail Order (Away) patterns, but this particular pattern leaflet was a first for me.

Leaflet T.C. 8 -- where the T.C. stands for True Confession. Do you remember that magazine (or perhaps you are a current subscriber!). A magazine with scintillating deemed stories aimed for the young woman; not quite pornography, but certainly not General Housekeeping either.

But, of course, women of this liking would enjoy crocheting as well. I had just never thought about the magazine offerings being in places other than those periodicals aimed directly at Needlecraft artists.

This is a two page, open fold leaflet, T.C. 8, with two popular patterns, vintage 1950's, from The Spool Cotton Company. Shown above is Pattern No 7857, a round pineapple daisy luncheon set.

The inside pattern is No 7855, a matching runner is a similar motif that measures 15 x 40 inches.

This pattern leaflet, in PDF form, is available in the shop, should you be interested.

The appearance of this pattern leaflet in my collection stack, makes me wonder what other magazines contracted with the Yarn and Thread companies to feature their pattern as mail-away's. I'll keep my eyes open, and if you know of others, do let me know.

Thanks for dropping by,

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