19th Century English Antique Treen Knitting Sheath Dated “1842”

Once common during the 18th and 19th centuries in the North of England, knitting sheaths were often attached to an individual’s belt and used to hold a knitting needle in a stable position whilst the other two hands were used for the task of knitting itself.

Like many examples, this item is made of treen (wood), and is of typical elongated, curved form, with chip-carved and scratch-carved decoration. The sheath bears the inscription “1842 SW.” The sheath has an aperture at one end where the knitting needle would have been placed. 

These sheaths offer an insight into the social history of knitting and domestic life in times gone by.

Provenance – Unknown.

Condition – Please refer to the images. Good overall. 

Size – Length 15 cm (5 7/8″)