Cotton Skirt

Very few pre-20th century knitted items have survived the ravages of time (and clothes moths!) but I have occasionally come across original 19th century knitted cotton petticoats in markets and vintage fairs. The originals were knitted in fine white cotton and were full in shape – to be worn beneath the skirts and dresses of the period.

My version turns into an attractive skirt, knitted in sections – starting with the bottom ‘pleated’ border – and using a more manageable 3 ply crochet cotton. The long ribbed waistband and drawstring allows the wearer to adjust the length and fit. The skirt looks particularly good worn over a vintage cotton lacey petticoat – as in the images here.

Yarn

The original was knitted using DMC Petra Crochet Cotton 5 (100% cotton, 400m/437yd – 100g).

Sizes and yarn quantities

The pattern gives instructions for sizes 34 – 44ins/86.5 – 112cm hips

The skirt uses approx.180-220g or 1600-2400m/1748-2622yds of the aforementioned cotton

Tension: 32sts and 40 rows to 10cm/4ins in stocking stitch

Needles etc: 2.75mm (US 2) needles; one pair straight needles and 60cm/24ins circular needle; 3mm (US D-3) crochet hook; markers

For more information and to purchase the pattern as a PDF download follow the link below to the Ravelry page (membership of Ravelry not required)

£4.00 (excl VAT)

Photos: Nick Sargeant