There are a wealth of baby patterns available for the expectant or doting knitter.
STC CRAFT, AN IMPRINT OF STEWART, TABORI & CHANG can be counted upon to present beautifully curated
collections that standout as classics the moment they are published. This week, I have
the pleasure of introducing Vintage Baby Knits, a collection of re-worked patterns from
designer, collector and vintage clothing dealer Kristen
Rengren.
Her book highlights a truism about knitting patterns, that most of them are an amalgam of inspirations from many sources. Originality lies in her modern yarn choices and updated sizing and styling. Rengren dedicates her book to the uncredited designers who, for the most part never held the copyrights to their patterns.
Rengren gives plenty of decade specific historical context. She also gives working
definitions for outdated and vague yarn classifications, translating terms like Saxony
and Shetland Floss. She offers great advice on choosing yarns for baby garments,
stressing that washability, durability and softness are the key factors when knitting for
little ones. Interestingly, she recommends wool-nylon sock yarns for their hard-wearing
fiber blend and because they knit at gauge similar to the yarns called for in vintage
patterns.
Many Berroco yarns would fit Rengren's criteria. The colors of Berroco
Sox™ and
Berroco Sox™ Metallic would certainly modernize any pattern that calls for fingering
weight yarn. Johnny Boy from our free
pattern archive and Saige from our booklet
archive both make use of the sturdy self-striping yarn.
The itch-free, machine washable Comfort® family also makes a perfect choice. It comes
in a wide range of weights and shade from Comfort® Baby to Comfort® Chunky, making
it suitable for any of the patterns in Vintage Baby Knits, or a classic Berroco pattern like
Truck.
Rengren has graciously provided us with an exclusive pattern, Blossom Cardi, a sweet sweater knit in
Pure® Pima. Though this high quality cotton provides a touch of luxury for a new baby, it
is just as easy to care for as its Comfort cousins.
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