Cornish Guernseys and Knit-Frocks by Mary Wright

In late 19th century, a main stay of the Cornish cottage industries was the hand-knitting of the traditional fishermans guernsey (gansey) or knit-frock. Using techniques and yarns these garments were made to last and be practical. Many villages and even some families developed their own stitch pattern details which they proudly used as a way of showing the originals of each garment.

During the 1970’s Mary Wright realised that many of these patterns which had [reviously been passed down via word of mouth were beginning to disappear. Through her research and extensive visits around the county Mary was able to complete a remarkable book documenting not only the social history of the Gansey but to also collect 30 different patterns including ‘The Vicar of Morwenstow’, ‘Polperro: Laughing Boy’ and ‘The Lizard: Lattice’ to name just a few.  All the patterns are provided in both written and chart form along with the instructions for a basic shaped garment.