The last couple of days have been great for inspiration. Because it’s been such a chilly winter season, I just can’t keep my mind off knits (the fabric kind)! And I really haven’t indulged enough in the making of early 20th century winter fashion. Oh, I’ve sewn plenty of dresses, skirts, blouses and jackets… but crochet and knitting takes so long! And though I do like to try my hand at crocheting 30’s and 40’s hats and bags, anything larger (e.g. tops) usually ends up in the bottom of a bag, and quite (intentionally?) forgotten. Ah time, why isn’t there more of you?! Anyway, being a proud greenie also means I am constantly on the hunt for interesting ways to turn old things into new. So all of this has culminated in my personal WINTER REFASHION QUEST!
Step1: Gather inspiration!
Well, there’s plenty of that to be had, persusing the images available online and in my little collection of 30’s, 40’s and 50’s crochet magazines. I decided to focus on four major areas:
1) blouses and jumpers:
2) coats and capes:
3) hats and headwear:
4) ascots and neckwear:
Step 2: Collect materials.
I decided to go the re-fashion route rather than the make-from-scratch. Having op shops (aka ‘thift stores’) near work helps! For a total of $10 I purchased the following materials:
- oversized khaki felt ladies jacket (lined) – probably 90’s era, rather unattractive; contains 2 large fabric covered buttons;
- woolen brown tartan dressing gown (unlined) – comes with lovely twisted braid belt with tassels at each end;
- large size mauve ribbed long sleeved jumper with boat neckline – fairly lightweight; probably also 90’s era;
- cream knitted turtleneck jumper – heavy knit; long sleeved;
- 2 x thick knit green sleeveless turtlenecks – hideous cuts, stretched out of shape; one bright green, the other more khaki green;
- boys’ hawaiian print shirt – will make a fabulous 40’s/ 50’s bikini.
Step 3: Start the re-fashion!
This is where the fun really begins… Watch this space! 3 refashioned knit-based items now completed!!!
Positive Greenism 