Weldon’s Mystery Project: Gentlemen’s Silk Wristers

Those weird Victorians weren’t so weird really. They too adored the sensuous next-to-the-skin feel of silk. In Weldon’s Practical Needlework, there are several projects lacking illustrations, but we all know how lovely silk feels. Imagine how the knitted Gentlemen’s Silk Wristers, or Pulse Warmers from Volume 1 must feel. Divine! Yet, how do they look?

We want to know and hope that you’ll help us find out. Here is the pattern as it was presented in 1886 with neither alterations nor corrections.

Gentlemen’s Silk Wristers, or Pulse Warmers.

Materials—One-half ounce of knitting silk and four No. 17 needles. Cast on 96 stitches, 32 on each needle, and join as for a stocking, knit around plain. The rest is knitted ribbed, 2 plain and 2 purl, until they are the desired length; 5½ inches are medium size. Fine wool can also be employed, casting on same number of stitches and using same needles.

These would make an elegant gift, if you’re beginning your holiday knitting in July. The silk fiber will add a touch of warmth just under the cuffs of a loved one’s shirt when winter arrives. Make several pairs, and you’ll be ahead of the gift knitting game.

If you make a pair, send us a photo to piecework@longthreadmedia.com.

Happy knitting!
Elizabeth