A Look At The History Of Knitting From The 11th Century To The 21st Century

By Lisa Braxton 

There are different sides of the story told about the history of knitting. Some historians claim that knitting was first done in Scandinavia while other claim that it originated from Egypt. However, everyone seems to agree on the fact that the first items were a pair of socks. Yes knitting socks was hugely popular those days. 

The first knitting artifact was collected in as early as the 6th century. However, this craft has undergone considerable changes between back then up to now.

In the 11th century, in Europe, Muslim knitters used to knit cushion covers and gloves for the Christian royal families. During those times, it wasn't a hobby; it was a duty reserved for servants in royal families.

In the 13th and 14th century, you will discover the Madonna knitting. At this time, there was no purl stitching, instead only knit stitches were known. The name Madonna knitting originates from the paintings that were done during that time. For instance, there are paintings of Virgin Mary knitting and also a famous painting called 'our lady knitting'.

In the 16th century, purl knitting was introduced. Silk stockings were needed for the ladies in the royal families and most of them were done using the purl stitches. In the History of knitting, one of the most noted collectables was Queen Elizabeth's stockings made in this century. The stockings were knitted with such high skills and sophistication to befit a queen.

In Britain, these skills were constructed during this era. Knitting stopped being a duty for low class servants and instead became a duty for refined ladies. A necessary distinguished skill for others and for some, a hobby.

In the 17th and 18th century, it was greatly adapted in Scotland. During this era, men also took up the craft. People made sweaters, gloves, socks, scarves and other accessories for home use and also for sale. It was not only a hobby, but also a source of livelihood of the Scottish.

When tracing timelines in establishing the history of knitting, the 1900s show significant growth and changes in knitting. Sophisticated techniques such as cable knitting were introduced. Apart from the techniques, different types of yarns, colors and designs were introduced.

In the 21st century, it became more vast and an easy hobby to adopt for everyone. Natural fabrics started being used hence making the prices of fabrics go down. Now, there are many needles for different types of knitting projects. Knitting started being highlighted in main stream media and items hit runways across the worlds. The history of knitting shows the journey of knitting from being a duty for a few to a hobby for millions.