Knitting Patterns Galore

Under the list of sites for FREE KNITTING PATTERNS is Knitting Patterns Galore.  Unlike Ravelry, all of the patterns on Knitting Patterns Galore are free.  They pull free knitting patterns from all over the internet.  And, it's very easy to search.  It's a simplified database for every knitter.  They have a crochet database, as well, appropriately called Crochet Patterns Galore.  So enjoy and this will be added to my list of Favorite Sites.

1958 Women's Size Charts - Different from Today!

The Botany book I found from yesterday, the one published in 1958 has a really interesting first page.  Check out the women's size charts from this era.  They look nothing like today's size charts. The last time my waist measured 25 inches, I was about a size 2 or 4; definitely not a 12!  Did we all get larger?  Or did they rename the sizes with smaller sounding sizes for women's egos?  I don't know, but it sure is fun!

women's body measurements

Sizes	12	14	16	18	20	40	42	44
		(32)	(34)	(36)	(38)
Bust ..........................................	30 ins.	32 ins.	34 ins.	36 ins.	38 ins.	40 ins.	42 ins.	44 ins.
Waist ........................................	25 ins.	261/2 ins.	28 ins.	30 ins.	32 ins.	34 ins.	36 ins.	38 ins.
Hip (7 ins. below waist) . . . .	33 ins.	35 ins.	37 ins.	39 ins.	41 ins.	43 ins.	45 ins.	47 ins.
men's body measurements
Sizes	36	38	40	42	44
Chest .........................................	36 ins.	38 ins.	40 ins.	42 ins.	44 ins.

Favorite Knitting Blogs

It's time, I think to start coming up with a list of my favorite knitting blogs that include Free Patterns.  Naturally, I started with Blogger, where I host Vintage Knit Wit for free.  Today, I found a long time favorite designer that I didn't even know had a blog, Susan B. Anderson.  I have admired her design work on both Ravelry and Craftsy, and love her book, "Itty Bitty Toys".  Just a few weeks ago, Susan published some new patterns on Woodland Animal Patterns that is too cute to be believed!  Such talent!  And, she includes a list of free patterns.  Check it out!

Vintage Knitting Picture of the Month

To toss or to keep.  That is the question I ask myself every time I see my knitting magazines.  This is one of a collection I found on eBay.  It is vintage (and so am I).  Botany College Hand Knits was published in MCMLVIII, which if my Roman Numeral teachings from grade school serve me, was 1958.  Cute pic, right?

Simply Mink Scarf (it's the better than your grandmother's mink stole)

That's right, Simply Mink Scarf is made with Mink.  No, they don't have to hurt the minks, the minks get a vigorous brushing and the fibers are used, along with mohair and cashmere, to create this rich yarn with a depth of color like no other.  When knitted into this scarf, the result is elegant and sophisticated.  Enjoy the luxury of Mink without the guilt!

Find the pattern on the new Scarves page.

Knitting Humor of the month.

Being a lifelong fan of the Original Star Trek, this one just cracked me up.  I've had this conversation, only instead of with my husband, who brilliantly turns a blind eye, with my mother.  I'm kind of surprised that she even asks about my yarn stash.  I'll have to show her the video.  Enjoy and Happy Stashing!

My New Fun Knitting Store on Amazon

Yes, I just added my Amazon Knitting Store. I have added several sub-categories for knitting and I think you'll find it fun just to snoop around. Feel free to offer suggestions. This store has a long way to go and there are loads of books, kindle downloads,...

Rainy Day knitting patterns

That's right, it's raining...all day, so far and it's already 2:00 pm.  So, I found this adorable sock pattern that will make your day.  Say, "Goodbye" to dreariness and, "Hello" to new these cute socks!  Thank you Sandy for this great pattern.  I can't wait to try it out!  Now, if I could only get out of work early and head to the yarn store.

Rain Drops Beaded Socks by Sandy Pruett

Handsome Pewter Vest

Wow!  I cannot believe it's already 2014.  I am so excited about my new blog and I can't wait to create new patterns.  As promised, here's the Handsome Vest I knit my son for Christmas.  Thank you, Chris Hess for being a great model.  You look very professional.

I found this on www.ravelry.com one of my favorite knitting pattern sites and it is a free, public pattern.  On Ravelry, it is listed as Handsome Pewter Vest, but when you click on it, it becomes Dad's Cabled Vest.  I love the tiny cables running up the front and the plain back.  I used a different yarn than called for in the original pattern.  I used Deborah Norville Collection, Premier Yarns, "Alpaca Dance", in Silver Fog.  This yarn is 75% Acrylic and 25% Alpaca.  I LOVE this since the vest I'm replacing for Chris was reduced to practically doll size in the dryer.  This yarn and vest is still hand wash cold, dry flat, but I think it would be fine if he machine washed cold on gentle cycle and dried flat.

Selfie of the Handsome Pewter Vest on Chris.  In the bathroom. Ah well.  Still, it looks nice and I like the purple shirt, too.

Here is the link to the free pattern:
Handsome Pewter Vest