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KnitHeaven Vintage Needlework Library

Free patterns ยท 1840s to 1920s

Patterns from our sisters of yesteryear, open for everyone.

Knitting, crochet, lace, tatting and embroidery, straight from the original books and free to read page by page. Every pattern comes from a book printed between the 1840s and the 1920s.

Vintage painting of a young woman in a white dress with a pearl necklace, holding her sewing
Our KnitHeaven Lady, Mrs. Beeton
Public domain patterns

A note from Dianne

Welcome to KnitHeaven

You know, that place where your mind goes when you hear those needles clicking, or clacking, or tweaking or whatever yours do! That place where your hands, needles, and yarn become one. There's no real explaining it, but you know what I mean. So welcome, you've arrived in the right place...

Many thanks to our sisters of yesteryear; they (Mrs. Beeton, for one, as well as others, some whose names are unknown) lead the way by writing down these instructions and patterns. We will be forever grateful for their foresight.

Sit for a bit, have a cup of java, or a "cupa" tea and a scone. Remember though, in no way is this site meant to replace the actual experience of knitting or crafting!

If you make any items from these vintage patterns and want to clarify directions for future users, please send me a note with the form on the Contact page so that I can post corrections.

Hope you have a KnitHeavenly day! We're glad you're along on this exciting journey!

A child knitting

New to knitting, or teaching a child? Kids' Corner has first stitches, easy first projects and free how-to videos.

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Pattern of the Month, October

No. 324. Knitted Bodice without Sleeves

This bodice is knitted in brioche stitch with black and purple wool, so that the raised ribs appear black on one side and purple on the other. The bodice fits…

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