Plate 21, Fig. 39

This is a sole to put within a shoe or boot, and is made in double knitting and sewed to a piece of stiff muslin of the proper shape, and bound all round with ribbon.

This pattern is on page 260 of The Workwoman’s Guide by a Lady, London: Simpkin, Marshall, and Co., Stationer’s Hall Court: Thomas Evans, Colmore Row, Birmingham (1838.)

The pattern, which consists of three sentences, describes the sole as one “to be put within a shoe or a boot,” and “is made in double knitting.” That is the construction, not the yarn weight. Neither a type of wool nor the size of needles is given. The number of stitches to be cast on and the number of rows to be knit are stated.

As with many patterns from the past, this one is probably a set of guidelines, and the experienced knitter would adapt it for the required size.

The blog provides detailed written and photo tutorial directions.