From the CODEPINK website:

“This Mother’s Day, we held our second 24-hour vigil in front of the White House, where we honored all mothers and women who live where war is happening – where women are paying the price with their bodies, loved ones, homes, future.”

The quilt was made from thousands of little squares knitted by women (and men) from across America and beyond. The slogan itself was inspired by Julia Ward Howe’s 1870 ‘Mother’s Day Proclamation‘

All images © CODEPINK. More images from the event are on Flickr

(via feministing)

I have been interested in fashion and clothing for many years and although unable to knit I was looking forward to researching the collection. I was not disappointed! The patterns are wonderful - they give a real insight into not only the clothing of the time but also the society. My own particular favourite is the collection of Modern Knitting Magazines from 1956-1964. Although the main focus is on knitting patterns the magazines also give fashion and beauty tips, amazing recipes (‘Be the perfect hostess and serve homemade bread’) and horoscopes. They say so much about the changing society of the 1950s and ’60s. For example, ‘Sweaters for the Teenagers’ are featured – the term having first emerged in the 1950s. I also love the pattern for a ‘Chanel-type suit and three lovely blouses’ from 1962 showing how high fashion filtered all the way through to knitting. It’s great to think of all these women knitting their very own designer suits!

Something else that I became aware of as I delved deeper into the world of knitting  is the importance of knitting in building relationships. Knitting can be a solitary task but also one that brings people together. ‘Stitch and Bitch’ groups are still popular and are a great way for people to socialise and support one another. I remember my Granny, a woman who never seemed to be without her knitting, trying in vain to pass her talent on to me. During my placement I was reminded by my Mum that I had been given a knitting bag with needles and wool years ago by my Granny. Next time I visit my parents I’m going to hunt it out and I’m determined to learn properly!

The collection of patterns is fantastic and so much can be taken from them. The library itself is also wonderful. I felt at home as soon as I walked in. The welcome was warm and genuine and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. I’ve really enjoyed my time here. It’s a great place which supports and celebrates women in so many different ways.

I know, I know… knitting patterns don’t initially sound very exciting, but they are! :) We’ve found some fantastic images of the “modern” British woman, some dating as far back as the late 1930s and early 1940s! Inside the pages of some incredible knitting magazines one can find oodles of women’s social history… everything from recipes, to helpful tips to family planning information (discreetly, of course).

One of my favorite pattern images is of an old fisherman seated, knitting, with a “modern” young woman looking inquisitively over the old fisherman’s shoulder, as if she is curious about the knitting (but not curious enough to knit something herself). The pattern is dated from 1962. I am inquisitive about the social subtext of this pattern and look forward to thinking more on this subject.

On a personal note, my experience with the knitting patterns has fostered an intense desire to learn to how to properly knit. I hope to find the time this summer, in hopes of being on my way to creating something uber cute (like an iPod cover). I have always been amazed by the skill necessary for knitting and have been on the receiving end of unbelievable knitting kindnesses (my Mom knitted afghans when I was a wee kid, my dear friend Eleanor made me mittens before I moved to the UK last year and my partner’s mother has knitted me the most wonderful socks)!

I must say that I have immensely enjoyed my time here at the Glasgow Women’s Library! Everyone is so kind, friendly, helpful and enthusiastic about helping women. So refreshing!

A play on the words of former American president “Teddy” Roosevelt, this quote sums up my time cataloging the knitting patterns here at Glasgow Women’s Library: “Speak softly and carry two small sticks: And you will go far.”