Digitization of McCall's Needlework Magazines

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Digitization of McCall's Needlework Magazines

If you've watched my YouTube channel, you're likely familiar with my love of McCall's Needlework Magazines. Initially, this came about because this is where Virginia Woods Bellamy initially had her Number Knitting ideas and patterns featured. So I began tracking down the specific issues dealing with this.  Another history lover, Leigh from Something Under the Bed, has a massive online bibliography of thousands of crafting magazines, a project which she has been working on continuously since 2003. She even has an entire page dedicated to McCall's Needlework. It was from her website that I developed my initial list of issues which...

The Genius of Number Knitting and Why I Just Can't Stop!

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

The Genius of Number Knitting and Why I Just Can't Stop!
Number Knitting is like an old friend, offering in a singular knitting method: a challenge, quiet insight, and soothing rhythm after a long day. As a very experienced knitter, I find the patterns in Number Knitting continuously interesting because of their ingenious construction. Some are top down, some or bottom up, some start at the bottom front, go up and over the shoulders, and end at the bottom back. There are even corner-to-corner (C2C) patterns for sweaters and afghans! Some shawls start at the center and work out. Some start at the outside and work in. The variety is endless. Yet, they can be knit without having to follow detailed line-by-line instructions.

Shaded Square Scarf

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Shaded Square Scarf

This scarf uses divided squares and center triangles. The calculator blow will maximize the size of the shawl while ensuring that you don't run out of yarn. It is a great use for mini skeins. Enter the following: The weight of your yarn for one of the colors Your gauge, and (after making a sample swatch) the grams per square inch of your sample.

Seamless Cocktail Coat

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Seamless Cocktail Coat

This jacket is made from the top down. The cast on edge with its three points become the neckline and sleeve openings. The bind off edge with its two points become the waistline center back, and bottom points of the jacket. Enter your chest measurement and gauge below to calculate the number of stitches used in each panel.

Evening Blouse

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Evening Blouse

  This glamorous evening blouse pattern original came only in a single size. Because the sizing up is done proportionally, people with a long and slim body type may want to lengthen the sweater by adding rectangles along the lower edges. Enter your chest measurement and gauge below to calculate your box number.

Host a Number Knitting Hands On Workshop

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Host a Number Knitting Hands On Workshop

"Number Knitting" is the original modular garter stitch method. and was actually patented in 1948. Number Knitted designs are drafted flat, on graph paper, and influenced by fashion and dressmaking techniques of the 1940-50s. They are classic, classy, and exciting to knit! Join Kelly Vaughn as she teaches the exciting modular knitting method. 

Hosting a Number Knitting Presentation

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Hosting a Number Knitting Presentation
“Number Knitting” is the original modular garter stitch knitting method and was actually patented in 1948. Kelly Vaughn has spent the last six years working to revive the book and republish it for modern knitters. By hosting a Number Knitting an event at your yarn shop, you’ll see the original book, plus Kelly’s new and improved charts. You’ll learn more about Mrs. Bellamy and what inspired her knitting method.

Diamond Design Pullover Sweater

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Diamond Design Pullover Sweater

Diamond Design Sweater for Women

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Diamond Design Sweater for Women

This pattern is one of many in Number Knitting that uses gauge shifting. The pattern in particular, takes full advantage of this method, as it uses five different sizes of needles! Using larger needles at the bust and smaller needles at the waist allows for subtle, yet highly effective shaping, which keeping the same number of stitches. Upon attempting to knit this pattern, it became apparent that the original needed some improvements. I increased the depth of the armhole Added a bit more room in the neck. The original length was also quite short (crop top), so I added some length to...

Republishing Number Knitting

Posted by KELLY VAUGHN

Republishing Number Knitting
Since 2016, I have been working on the tasks required to republish "Number Knitting." It is a massive undertaking, taking much longer than I ever imagined it would, and is utilizing more of my graphic design, illustration and publishing skills that have ever been utilized on a single project in my 20+ year design career.

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website.

Pre-loader