What The Dickens Is This?

I know I am supposed to be using up my Great Wool Stash, and not adding to it – but I saw this in a basket of oddments by the door in the Samaritans Charity Shop, and thought “Nobody else will want that” so I bought it. For the fascinating label if nothing else.

This skein of sock yarn [1 ounce in weight] is mysteriously labelled “Little Dorritt” with two ‘t’s – even though Dickens’ eponymous character only had one ‘t’ to her name.

Furthermore, I thought Little Dorrit [real name ‘Amy’] was famed for her sewing, not her knitting. I really ought to read the book, to find that out.

The reverse of the label is full of wonderful information. These “scientifically blended knitting yarns were introduced to the British public in 1949 …the wearing property of this yarn is acclaimed by thousands of satisfied users in all Countries of the World. From our own tests we have evidence of 2 pairs of men’s socks made from our 4ply sock wool which have been worn alternately for over 18 months without requiring any darning or strengthening.”

I presume the “Pioneers” are the manufacturers, George Raw, Limited, of Bingley in Yorkshire- but efforts to find out more about them have failed thus far.

I did find a photograph of a Little Dorrit Triple Knitting Counter here. published by the owner, Linda Spashett. She thinks it dates from the 20s or 30s. But that spells Dorrit as Dickens does. I believe that King Cole Yarns once produced a ‘Little Dorrit’ range too.

The pack is 8” long, 2” in diameter.

I have just noticed another message down the side of the label

“A new and novel pack that can be used from the handbag or pocket. No ravelling - no waste, use either from inside or outside”

I love the heathery tones – the wool looks grey – but there is beige, blue, lilac and sage green in there. But 1oz of yarn is not going to make a very big sock is it? Any suggestions for what I can do with it?