Today's D-Day memorials make me think about how the effects of the World War II were felt by everyone. I imagine one felt rather scared and useless here on the home front and that being able to volunteer to do something, like knitting socks for the boys, must have made one feel just a little less helpless in the whole situation.
In honor of these volunteers, the American Red Cross has come out with a WWII Commemorative Knit Kit, complete with pattern, yarn and needles (found via As The Yarn Turns). I love historical reproductions like this, and the proceeds from this one support a worthy cause. Here's a link to a more detailed photo of the prototype kit.
The Imperial War Museum shop also sells World War II-era reproductions, though I can't find any available for purchase online. When I was there I picked up a very interesting little booklet on mending and re-fashioning your clothing, in order to make do with the fabric rationing.
this is the best thing i've seen in ages... and for a good cause too... i would happily pay just for the tin - but the full kit is fab. thanks for the heads up!
Posted by: semaphoria | June 09, 2004 at 20:18
It would be fun if there was a Red Cross sock-along. I want to get the kit, but I have never even picked up a set of DPNs!
Posted by: Amy | June 10, 2004 at 09:00