Object in Focus

Make do and mend

During the Second World War materials were scarce. Cotton, metal, wood and paper were diverted to aid the war effort and the skilled people who made household goods such as clothes, pans and furniture were drafted into essential war work. People were encouraged to ‘make do and mend’ with what they already had.

This thrifty approach continued well after the end of wartime rationing. It is only in the past thirty years or so that people have stopped darning socks and mending shoes, opting instead to buy new. However, motivated by the need to save money and protect the environment, repairing and up-cycling is enjoying a revival, with knitting in particular growing in popularity.

This booklet, Woollies for the Army, was produced during wartime to encourage people to knit warm clothes and accessories for the Armed Forces. It includes patterns for pullovers, tank tops, scarves, gloves and socks. The balaclava and gloves pictured here were knitted by local knitting group, Knit and Natter, using the patterns in the booklet. The group meets every second and fourth Tuesday at Central Art Gallery in Ashton 10am-1pm and new members are always welcome.

The booklet and knitwear can be seen on display in the Make do and Mend exhibition at Portland Basin Museum which is open Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 5pm.