From The Edwardian Wardrobe ~ Hand Crochet Trimmed Garments

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The art of hand crocheting is a very old form of lace making. There has been some early documentation of crocheted textiles known about 1812 although the craft was more than likely practice prior to that date. In 1824 the first crochet patterns known were published in the Penelope magazine which was printed in Holland. Through the 1800's crocheting seems to be firmly established and along with the art, books were available giving abundance of patterns for trimming household linens as well as clothing. Today the art of crocheting is still a very popular past time.

Still, in the early years of the 20th century pattern books abound for trimming lady's under clothing and nightgowns. Many printed instructions were available for making lovely yokes for nightgowns as well as camisole or corset covers and teddies. Although some camisoles or corset covers are made entirely of crochet many though are of just a pretty crocheted yoke. The yoke would then be sewn to white fabric to complete the garment.

Here is an example of one of these wonderful instruction books. Dated 1917 by the Novelty Art Studios, Chicago, Ill. The book is 14 pages of photos with printed instructions of a variety of designs for yokes and bed caps . It certainly has a wonderful array of styles.

Two pages from the inside of the book.

Two lovely crocheted yokes in unused condition. Most of the yokes found are of a white, or off white cotton thread but occasionally a color will surface such as the pink in the second photo.

Please visit me here for more details regarding these yokes, other yokes and early crochet pattern instruction books.