So I decided to try something new and it was…well…it was a learning experience to say the least! A few weeks ago I stumbled upon a plethora of amazing vintage crochet patterns on Etsy. I’m talking 1960s and 1970s era patterns that looked so chic and were at the wallet-busting price of $2 or less! I ordered a few to test out and this vintage crochet halter is the first one I attempted. I grabbed my hooks and let the good vibes wash over me. 😉 Here’s how it went…
This pattern is from a British company called Sirdar. Although I had never heard of them before they are in fact still in business. You can check out their instagram here. I purchased the pattern from a vintage pattern seller on Etsy.
Vintage patterns have some differences from modern patterns. The biggest difference is that most of the yarns suggested are no longer available. Believe me, this is a good thing! The yarns available in the 60s and 70s were not the greatest. We have so much more variety and quality in yarn selection today. You’ll have to determine a substitute yarn which isn’t hard as long as you stay within the suggested weight range.
The other pretty big difference between vintage patterns and modern patterns is the sizing. For example, a size 6 in 1975 is a little different than a size 6 today. However, the sizes provided in this vintage crochet halter were bust measurements of 32, 34, 36 etc. I made mine by the size 34 and checked my gauge but it still came out a little big. I thought a 34 was the same no matter what decade you lived in, so I’m chalking this up to the stretch in the yarn I selected (possibly…I’m still not convinced). Once complete, I had to do some creative maneuvering in the alterations department but I think I did ok all things considered.
A third difference I found between vintage patterns and modern patterns is that modern patterns tend to spell out explicitly what to do. The number of stitches is always exact and how you are supposed to tie off or weave in is described in detail. I found this vintage pattern to expect the reader to make inferences based on instructions that were slightly vague at times. Perhaps crafters of yesteryear had better inferencing skills. LOL
Additional outfit details: White denim | See by Chloe Espadrilles (here, here, here, and here)
When working with crochet patterns of any era, you must pay attention to whether the instructions are written in US or UK terms. This pattern was written in UK terms, so I found it odd that measurements were given in inches. Shouldn’t it be centimeters?
Anywho…it was a fun project and it didn’t deter me from trying another vintage pattern. If anything, it was even MORE of a distraction from all the moving stress lately. Speaking of, we are now officially moved out of our house and are living in some very generous temporary accommodations while we wait to fly out next month. This move is happening!
How are you? To my fellow crocheters out there, have you tried a vintage pattern before? I’d love to hear about your adventures with them.
Have a good one! And as always, thank you for reading!
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xo – Erin
Vintage Crochet Halter appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com. If you see this content published anywhere else, please email cathedralsandcafes@gmail.com.
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