Classic British Knits : 40 Traditional Patterns from England, Scotland and Ireland

by Madeline Weston

Presents the most exciting traditional knitwear made from patterns that make up the 'British' style. Not only are original classic designs included (instructions for which have been passed down through many generations and in some cases have never been written down before) but fabulous contemporary versions have been formulated, using new yarns and styles. All of the garments can be knitted in standard, readily-available yarns, and advice about substituting similar yarns and using alternative colors is also provided. Designs are given in a range of sizes, making many of them suitable for both men and women.

Genres: Knitting

144 pages, Hardcover

Published April 27, 1988

About the author

Madeline Weston and her partner opened their shop The Scottish Merchant in Covent Garden in 1970, and for 20 years it was known as the place in London for buying beautifully made, authentic garments sourced from all parts of the British Isles. Madeline also owned a yarn shop and has done extensive research into traditional knitting patterns; an authority on the subject. She now lives in Norfolk.

Reviews

[Abbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully produced , this large hardcover doesn't have spiral spine, alas, but does have glorious photos of the UK and some really nice "classic" patterns. A good book to keep in your library if you enjoy/prefer those sorts of patterns.

Some history of the designs, good instructions - color stranded designs are charted but the cable techniques are, mostly, also given within the pattern - my perferred method of doing this. Unfortunately the sizings are very small, so you've been warned, but the designs are wonderful old ones, with only a few somewhat odd "updated" sorts of designs added in - well, updated in the early 1980s, that is!

Enjoyed this but won't be keeping it in my own library since I can't make up any of the patterns that I liked for myself or family due to size constraints, alas. Still on my quest for a Gansey-type sweater that absolutely cries out to be "mine!!!!", kwim? And for a shawl-collared cardigan with beautiful cables that's for women and isn't too "fussy", so will, undoubtedly, be scanning through many more of these sorts of books in the future, yay!! Love "looking" - and dreaming, don't you?

[Mckinley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice variety of sweater, vests, etc. for adults.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

My absolute favourite knitting book; I've had it for years and still love it. Traditional British knitting patterns that never go out of date.