Homespun Vintage

Book excerpt: Drawing inspiration from the interiors and fashions of the twentieth century, this great new book is packed full of knit and crochet projects which will fit perfectly into any vintage-inspired interior. The craft skills that have traditionally been passed down through the generations from mother to daughter are as popular as ever, boosted by the current vogue for all things vintage. Creating your own bespoke home furnishings is now seen not just as an exercise in thrift, but as a creative and rewarding activity in itself. Two Tone Chic draws inspiration from the sophistication and elegance of Coco Chanel’s famous little black dress, the drama of geometric art deco shapes, and the simplicity of embellishments such as ribbons and lace. Folk Tales introduces the tradition of colour and spontaneity found in Scandinavian and Russian folk art, with its recurring motifs from the natural world, as well as joyful decorative techniques like bobbles, beads, pom poms, embroidery and applique. Birds and flowers adorn cushions, while the bright colours of Russian Dolls provide inspiration for a cosy blanket and a sumptuous floor cushion. Time for Tea brings us to the ‘make do and mend’ era of the 1950s with its floral frocks and afternoon tea parties. Pretty vintage buttons, frills and lace are all in evidence here, with floral cushions, doilies and table runners. With feature spreads on the inspiration behind each look, these projects will help you turn your house into a home. Word count: 40,000