Knitting's fun history

Knitting has a rich history, originating as a practical skill that developed into an art form over centuries. Evidence of knitting-like techniques dates back to the ancient Middle East, where a method called nalbinding—using loops to create fabric—predates knitting itself. The earliest true knitting samples, dating to around the 11th century CE, come from Egypt, with intricate cotton socks featuring patterns that suggest an advanced level of skill. These early examples were typically crafted by men, who often worked professionally as knitters.

By the Middle Ages, knitting had spread to Spain, likely through Islamic influence, and gradually made its way across Europe. Knitting became especially popular in the 14th and 15th centuries, with many regions developing their unique styles and techniques. Guilds of knitters emerged, and knitted items became prized luxury goods, often made from fine materials like silk.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, knitting took on a more domestic role as women began to knit stockings and other garments for family members, especially in colder climates. By this time, knitting spread to the Americas, with settlers bringing the craft to the New World. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century transformed knitting with the invention of knitting machines, allowing mass production of knitwear and shifting much of the work from home to factories.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, knitting became a common pastime for women, especially during wartime, when hand-knitted garments were made for soldiers. The mid-20th century saw a dip in knitting’s popularity due to the rise of affordable, machine-made garments, but it experienced a resurgence in the 1970s, with knitting regaining popularity as a hobby.

Today, knitting has had a modern renaissance, with communities around the world embracing it as both craft and art form. Modern knitters experiment with diverse fibers, colors, and techniques, and knitting has become a platform for creativity, social connection, and even activism through practices like yarn-bombing and community projects.