Unraveling Crochet in Nineteenth Century Britain: A Case Study of an 1886 Crocheted Shawl Pattern

Abstract

This paper offers a brief overview of the history and origins of crochet as a needleart, explores the cultural and political climate contributing to its popularization, before analyzing pattern books and garments at the height of the first wave of popularity in Britain through examining primary sources, specifically the 1886 third edition of Needlework for Ladies of Pleasure and Profit by ‘Dorinda’ (pseud.), examining the role of late Victorian Work Societies in the production and commercialization of crochet, before detailing the recreation of a three-cornered shawl, the pattern for which is in the book. The recreation of the shawl from primary sources uses the author’s decades of crocheting experience and empirical knowledge to further investigate into the design and construction of Victorian crochet techniques, as well insight into the economic feasibility of crochet as an income source in the period.