Thursday, December 21, 2006

Treasures from the Past

I've read on many of your blogs that you learned to knit from your grandmothers. I didn't learn from mine (that I remember), but she was a knitter. I only learned about two years ago when a friend taught me the basics. From there on, I am self-taught. I do remember my grandma knitting though. I remember her aluminum knitting needles and the knitting basket sitting next to her recliner. I remember the red, white and blue scarf, hat, and mittens she knit for me when I lived in New York. I remember it as a part of her... of who she was.

I've seen some of the shawls, capes and blankets she made before. But today, my mom brought over some bags full of clothing that my grandma had knit for me as a child. Amazing stuff! And I thought it was super cool that the most of the garments (including the 3 sweaters pictured here) were all knit EZ style with no seams or even button bands. I wish the light was better for the pictures but the afternoon was graying and with my little patience issue, I just couldn't wait to snap a few photos.


These are just a few of the many items my mom brought over. I'm amazed by her talent and attention to detail, but unfortunately most of the items are knit in the ever-popular acrylic of the 60s & 70s. However, a couple of items do seem to be wool and that little cable number above is about a size 3 and soft as can be.

As you can imagine, even though I don't have daughters to wear these items, they are a tremendous treasure for a knitter to inherit!

And, of course, what knitting collection from the 60s/70s would be complete without a funky, bold crocheted vest...

She actually made matching ones of these for me and my mom. It must've been a big day for my mom!






5 comments:

knitknerd said...

Treasure indeed! What a special
gift - and so close to Christmas -
Looks like knitting is in your genes - no wonder you're such a wonderful knitter!

Lynda said...

That is so special that you have those!! Amazing.

I had a vest JUST LIKE THAT! I totally forgot about it until I saw yours! wow.

Anonymous said...

Well, with the items being acrylic they aren't full of moth holes, right?

They look beautiful - how wonderful to have that link to your grandmother! (And to know your knitting talent may have come from her!)

Donna Boucher said...

Treasure from the past!
How wonderful!!!

Merry Christmas Tammy!
Thank you for cheering for the Packers. I'm so glad they won!

My family doesn't really get the blog-sistah thang either.

It doesn't matter.

We get it ;o)

Charity said...

That is so awesome, Tammy!