1940s Joan Crawford Knitted Jumper

My usual posting, and making, schedule has been interrupted by the arrival of some work. I’ve been working on a local outdoor Shakespeare festival as a wardrobe assistant. So far I’ve mostly been working on Henry V, however this production is set in a WW1 field hospital, making it my 6th WW1 production in 4 years. I’m hoping to update my portfolio with some production shots once they become available but in the mean time enjoy this photo of some of the adorable company I’ve been keeping.

Anyway, back to the 1940s.

Knitting jumpers in the summer feels very strange. But when I came across this book in my local library I was so inspired by this image of Joan Crawford I knew I just had to make this jumper.

Those shoulder! The wide round collar! I loved it and I knew I had to make it.

I decided to use some Periwinkle Blue acrylic I already had in my stash. Why? Because buying new wool when I already own so much goes against the whole idea of sustainability that I try to practice in every aspect of my life. Yes I know new things are exciting, but do you know what’s even more exciting? Making something new from something I already own.

I also would have liked to make it in something other than acrylic. But the acrylic was bought long before I knew about micro-plastics and started on my sustainable fashion journey. So I will have to settle for knowing this jumper is going to wash really well and hold its shape.

The Finished Jumper

The textured pattern was really simple to knit. Actually it was too simple, not only did I get bored of knitting it quite quickly but I would also zone out and make mistakes and not notice. Very annoying. It is also relatively shapeless and has knitted up much bigger than I expected. Rather than the slim fitting knit that Joan Crawford wears, mine definitely veers towards comfy.

Also, I have NO IDEA how you are supposed to gather that sleeve head into the armhole. I took the decision to pleat mine which creates a really boxy shape which I love. But seriously, the gathers would have been about 2 inches thick and I was not feeling that.

I did contemplate wearing the jumper and styling some photos, but honestly, it’s just too hot for that. All I can say is roll on the autumn so I can wear this beauty out and show off those sleeves.

What do you think of my second vintage knitted jumper? I’m certainly excited to start on the next one.

Claude x