Knitting Counterpanes: Traditional Coverlet Patterns for Contemporary Knitters

by Mary Walker Phillips, Christine Timmons (Editor)

Elegant knitted coverings called counterpanes adorned many a bed in the 19th century. The patterns for most of these coverings, however, have been neglected for most of this century--until now. This book presents the best yield of the author's extensive search through 19th-century needlepoint magazines--46 counterpane patterns and 32 lace edgings and borders for knitters of all skill levels.

Genres: Knitting, Nonfiction, Crafts

176 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1989

Reviews

[Anne Hawn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book with numerous patterns for the old-fashioned knitted bedspreads. Most are designed to be made with tiny needles and bedspread cotton. Some are knitted in one piece, but most are knitted with motifs, usually circular or square which are sewn together. The book has lots of information for the stitches, edgings and technical aspects of construction. Although the book is a collection of patterns from the 1800s they are just as beautiful today as when they were made.

Mary Walker Phillips has long been known as an expert in traditional knitting and the book reflects that. I am using the book for a project that a group in Ravelry, which I belong to, is starting. In many cases, we will just be making a pillow, but I am eager to do a full counterpane.

[Mckinley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting patterns.

[Ann Johnson Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

another book I drool over. Someday I will knit one. Right after I knit my Bohus sweater while living in Hawaii after I retire.

[Anne]

Too intimidating for my skill level but brilliant patterns.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear patterns, with good photos. The squares are perfect for knitting while traveling. (Unfortunately, they stopped making the cotton yarn I was using when I was 9 squares into my masterpiece!)