This might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but as a former child-dreaming-of-a-career-in-archaeology I am fascinated by this pattern: the Gunnister Purse Replica by Chris Laning. (The pattern itself is posted at the Island of Misfit Patterns—a welcome new find for me.)
This bag is a replica of one found in 1951 (1953?) with the Gunnister bog burial (c. late 17th C).
Interestingly enough, a bit of searching reveals that one can also find patterns for Gunnister gloves ($5) and Gunnister Stockings (no picture with these, but the pattern is free).
To me, there’s something simultaneously magic and deeply human about choosing to knit a replica of a knitted piece originally used over 300 years ago. I feel the same way as a quilter and prefer working with reproduction fabrics, particularly those reflecting styles from the mid-1800s and the 1930s. (I’ve got lots of sources for these on my links page, if you’re interested.) If you know of other replica patterns you’ve knit (or hope to knit) I’d love to hear about them.
P.S. Full details on the Blogiversary Raffle coming up on Monday. My friend Chris has generously donated two skeins of Socks that Rock from Blue Moon Fiber Arts as an additional prize!