Knitting for Victory!

[Intro] [Task] [Process] [Evaluation] [Resources] [Food Rations]

[Victory Gardens] [Knitting for Victory] [Women's Roles]

In the November 24, 1941 edition of the popular "Life" magazine there were basic instructions and a pattern for a simple knitted vest along with the article "How to Knit." Knitting gave people at a home a way to help - particularly women.

Many of the earliest knitters for World War II had knit for Victory as children or young adults of young adults during World War I. Knitting was for them a natural and immediate response to war. Knitting provided warmth and comfort for the soldier and therapeutic distraction for the knitter.

Check out this website for more information about knitting for victory!

QUESTION: During World Wars I and II women were encouraged to make garments for soldiers. To this end, the phrase "Knit your Bit" was used by which organization?

ANSWER: The American Red Cross. "Knit your bit" appeared on a famous poster depicting a pair of knitted socks in progress and the line, "Our boys need sox!" Special patterns were designed for uniform garments, and required olive drab or navy blue yarn. The patterns are still available at the American Red Cross Museum website, and in 2004 a new "Knit your bit" kit was released to commemorate the dedication of the National World War II Monument in Washington DC.