History of Knitting

History of knitting: Although no one knows exactly how the history of knitting began, most agree that it probably began with Arabian sailors who travelled throughout the Mediterranean spreading their fishing net knit patterns.

Apparently after the sailors, again it was spread by men who were the first to have it as an occupation. During the middle ages, the most created items were socks and stockings (stockings were highly fashionable).

Who took the craft from there on to turn it into an occupation where whole families would be involved is again unknown. But knitting spread to create more items like sweaters, trousers and dresses, baby items, blankets and of course socks and stockings.

During those times, it was a highly valued skill and kept many poor families in work. I can image them sitting by the fireplace in winter time, creating and talking, men - women - children.

In the Elizabethan period knitting schools flourished, both girls and boys would learn the craft. Knitting, back then, wasn't something more women did. Both sexes were involved and men actually did it for a job (still)!.

Then came the industrial revolution.

And clothing was created in factories. Knitting pieces were not one-off items any more. More women became involved than men (for some reason). And then we had the wars, WW1 and WW2. Men stopped knitting and women started even more feverously providing their men with warm items to get them through the cold, harsh conditions.

What began as a necessity to provide various types of clothing is now a hobby - a pastime to many people who enjoy the creation of one-off items or enjoy taking two needles and yarn in their hands and turning it into masterpieces!!