Vintage knitted doorstops are charming, often handmade items, typically built around a heavy core like a brick or lead weight, and covered in colorful, textured yarn, popular from Victorian times through the 1960s for adding whimsy (like cats, bunnies, houses) while keeping doors open for airflow, showcasing handmade folk art with distinctive, worn features from age and use.

Key Characteristics:

Core & Weight: Usually a brick, lead weight, or sand-filled bag for heft.

Covering: Brightly colored, often chunky yarn, knitted in various stitches (like stocking stitch) or sometimes crocheted.

Designs: Popular motifs include animals (cats, pigs, sheep, bunnies), houses, Christmas themes (Santa), and retro items like VW camper vans.

Style: Ranges from Victorian "lead cushions" (covering bricks) to Mid-Century Modern (MCM) bright, graphic patterns, and rustic cottage styles.

Condition: Expect signs of age like worn corners, faded colors, or slight disrepair, adding to their vintage appeal.

Why They Were Popular:

Ventilation: To hold doors open and allow air circulation, preventing slamming.

Decorative: They added color and personality, transforming plain household objects into art.

Handmade Charm: Often crafted from patterns, they reflect home crafting traditions.

Examples: A 1960s cat-shaped doorstop with a brick inside; a Christmas Santa with holly berries; or a vibrant, knitted house.