"Khaki knitting book" by Olive Whiting is a collection of knitting and crochet patterns written in the early 20th century. A wartime relief booklet, it compiles practical patterns for garments and comforts—sweaters, socks, wristlets, mittens, caps, blankets—intended for soldiers and allies. It stresses sturdy, serviceable colors and sizing, credits relief organizations for shared directions, and directs proceeds to Allied aid. The opening of this pattern booklet frames the effort with a patriotic poem urging readers to “knit your bit,” then a foreword noting the designs are for experienced knitters. It acknowledges contributors and warns that lending the booklet deprives Allied relief, followed by an index, abbreviations, and the first detailed patterns. Early pages lay out women’s sweaters (kimono-style, slip-over), sleeveless jackets and jerseys, multiple wristlet options, and an extensive run of men’s and hospital socks—plain, regulation, bed, heelless, and service wear—with precise yarn amounts, needle sizes, and shaping steps. Further entries introduce mufflers, mittens, caps and helmets, and practical hospital pieces such as abdominal bands, knee caps, eye bandages, wash cloths, and hot-water-bottle covers, all geared to durable wartime use. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
These books are free to read. Each is in the public domain in the United States; check your own country's rules before you copy or share one.
