Where does knitting come from? Journey through history!

Who invented knitting? A journey through the history of handcraft

Knitting is now a popular hobby practiced by people all over the world. It offers a way to relax, be creative and even create fashionable garments and accessories. But who actually invented knitting? This question takes us on a fascinating journey through the history and cultures that contributed to the development of this craft.

The Origins of Knitting

The exact origin of knitting is difficult to determine, as textiles made from natural materials often do not survive well. However, there are archaeological finds that provide clues to the early origins of this technique.

The oldest known knitted objects come from the Middle East, particularly Egypt. These finds, including socks dating to the 3rd to 5th centuries AD, were found in tombs and are remarkably well preserved. The technique used for these early pieces is often called "needle binding," a sort of precursor to modern knitting. Needle binding involves pulling a thread into loops using a single needle, which is similar to knitting but done differently.

From the Middle East to Europe

Knitting as we know it today probably developed further in the Middle Ages and spread from there to Europe. From the 13th century onwards, evidence of knitting began to appear in Europe, and by the 14th century there were already knitting guilds in Spain. Spanish knitters were particularly known for their finely crafted religious textiles, often decorated with elaborate designs.

Another significant step in the spread of knitting was the introduction of knitting to Britain and other parts of Northern Europe. By the 16th century, knitting had become a widespread craft there, and hand-knitted stockings, hats and gloves had become important trade items.

Industrialization and Knitting

The Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries brought great changes to knitting. With the invention of the knitting machine by William Lee in 1589 and its later development, knitting became a faster and more efficient process. This led to mass production of knitted goods, but did not completely displace hand knitting. Instead, hand knitting developed into an art form and a popular hobby.

Knitting in the Modern Age

Today, knitting is experiencing a renaissance. In a world often dominated by technology and fast-paced life, many people find knitting a calming and creative outlet. Knitting communities and blogs, YouTube tutorials and social media groups have revived knitting and made it more accessible than ever before.

Conclusion

Although the exact origins of knitting are shrouded in mystery, history shows that the technique has been developed and appreciated across centuries and continents. From ancient Egypt to medieval Europe to the modern needlework movement, knitting has a rich and diverse history. Today, as then, knitting connects people and cultures, provides a source of relaxation, and allows us to create something beautiful and useful with our own hands.