This pattern is based on a genuine Cornish Guernsey (also known as a knit-frock) traditionally over-sized for a 2 year-old and should last for several years (roll back the sleeve cuffs and revel in the extra length).
The front and back are identical, thus allowing even wear on both body and sleeves, preventing uneven wear-out. The sleeves are knitted down from a pick-up of the armhole stitches and cast off at the cuff. This allows a worn out cuff to be re-knit, or the sleeve to be lengthened if outgrown.
The firm highly twisted wool and thin needles create a soft, dense and very hardwearing garment which cannot be replicated at this tension by a machine. This guernsey may well become a family heirloom!
Several of the patterns are taken from Mary Wright’s book ‘Cornish Guernseys & Knit-frocks’ published by The Heritage Press, Clifton-upon-Teme, Worcestershire, UK; first published in 1979.