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The University of Southampton
In the Loop

Jane Waller

Jane Waller collection
Jane Waller collection

Jane Waller has written three books on the history of the Second World War and five books on knitwear design. Her first book on knitwear entitled: A stitch in time was published by Duckworth in 1972, and is being revised by Jane to be republished in 2009. She has also compiled books on men’s knitwear including The man’s knitting book published by Thames and Hudson in 1984. Her most recent publication is Knitting fashions of the 1940s: styles, patterns and history published by the Crowood Press in 2006. In this book Jane makes the following dedication: “This book is dedicated to the memory of Edith Layton who, by adding her knitting leaflets and magazines to mine, ensured that the very best patterns could be saved for future knitters to enjoy. It is also my celebration of the beautiful old knitting leaflets, the women’s magazines and long running publications such as Stitchcraft, the Oldhams and Vogue Knitting Books. New knitters and experienced ones alike will realise their value in the history of knitting.”

Jane Waller’s collection of knitting patterns was acquired by the University of Southampton Library; they are now a key part of the Knitting Reference Library located in the Library at Winchester School of Art. The Knitting Reference Library includes those classics celebrated by Jane in the above dedication and comprises patterns from the late nineteenth century to the current day. Her collection covers knitted clothing and accessories for men, women and children; knitting for the services from World War One and World War Two; knitting for the home; knitted toys and novelties.

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