Vintage Knits
Rowan
In A Nutshell: 31 vintage inspired designs for both men and women with modern twists and interesting styling details
This book perfectly captures the mood of the moment with a love for all things vintage. It features designs inspired by the 40s, 50s and 60s, adapted for modern figures using Rowan wools. There are 31 patterns; seven are for men, featuring top Rowan designers including Kaffe Fassett, Kim Hargreaves and Louisa Harding.
I counted up and there are actually eight patterns I would consider making, so considered this a quite good return on the current cover price, as I would be paying around a £1 a pattern. Amongst the designs I wasn’t so keen on, I picked up little styling details that would work with other garments. I liked an eyelet neckline and ribbon tie.
All the knitwear is beautifully styled with complementary vintage clothes and accessories. Each piece has a little information about the inspiration behind it and even some styling tips as to how to wear it.
The designs make extensive use of tweed wools to good effect. Many of the designs for women are little fitted cardigans with interesting detail. My absolute favourite was a little belted jacket worked in off-white tweed with red intarsia floral motifs.
I’ve borrowed this book from the library but may have to buy it.
