Every country caught up in the Second World War was affected by civilian shortages, but some countries were more affected than others. These magazines, published in Great Britain, are full of tips and projects for making the most of a limited clothing ration.
Knitting, as always, was a popular pastime. Since it was important to use as little yarn as possible, designers started creating patterns for tight, waist-length jumpers in stitches that saved wool. Multi-coloured patterns (as in the hat and gloves below) became popular as a way of using up odds and ends. If all else failed, knitters could always unravel an old garment, and use the wool to knit something new!
Now on to the magazines.
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| January 1943 |
The cover shows a ribbed jumper with a camels in cross stich on the yoke. Other contents include patterns for detachable collars made of wool (only half an ounce of wool for each!) , a pattern for an apron to make out of old blackout curtain, and a pattern for "sockettes" to be worn to save one's precious stockings.
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| February 1943 |
February's cover features a knitted hat and gloves to keep warm in the winter weather. Inside, there are instructions on turning "last year's old cotton frocks" in "blousettes". Another ration stretcher!
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| May 1943 |
May's issue has a short-sleeved jumper on the front cover—just the thing for spring. Articles inside include how to turn a broken zip into an ornamental buttonhole, and patterns for crocheting a "Dutch cap" and a "Daisy Fez".
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