Capture the ingenuity of the wartime Make Do and Mend movement with this authentic 1940s knitting pattern, designed to transform a large cardigan into two practical garments, a sleeveless waistcoat and a jumper.

Originally created to make the most of every precious length of wool, this timeless design uses small amounts of contrasting yarn to produce an attractive check pattern. It's just as appealing today for knitters who enjoy vintage fashion, slow fashion, and stash-busting projects.

The original colour scheme features mid green, maroon, dark green, yellow and beige, but the design looks equally attractive worked in your own favourite colours or reclaimed yarn.

Pattern Details

• Makes a sleeveless waistcoat and jumper
• Finished bust: 34 inches (86 cm)
• Finished length: 18½ inches (47 cm)
• Sleeve seam: 4½ inches (11.5 cm)
• Approx. yarn required: 11 oz (312 g) plus assorted contrast colours
• Needle sizes: 2.75 mm (UK No.12) and 3.25 mm (UK No.10)
• Tension: 7½ stitches = 1 inch (2.5 cm)

A wonderful example of wartime resourcefulness