The history of knitting through the ages: from its origins to today, everything you need to know 🧶✨
Knit SisShare
Introduction
Have you ever wondered where knitting comes from, this passion that punctuates your days, your breaks, or your cozy evenings? The history of knitting through the ages is rich, full of traditions, innovations, and creativity. Here at Knit-sis, we grew up surrounded by balls of yarn and needles, learning from our aunt and grandmother, before creating our colorful and fun patterns for you.
In this article, we take you on a journey through time: from the mysterious origins of knitting to current trends, while giving you the keys to understanding and fully living your passion.
🌍 The origins of knitting: an ancient and mysterious art
When and where was knitting born?
Knitting, in its primitive form, dates back several centuries BC. The earliest archaeological evidence dates from the Middle East, particularly in Egypt, where fragments of knitted socks have been found dating from the 3rd to the 5th century.
Knitting in ancient societies
In Europe, knitting developed slowly, often reserved for the working classes for making warm clothing. It was during the Middle Ages that the techniques began to spread, notably with the appearance of machine knitting at the end of the 16th century.
🧶 Knitting through the centuries: crafts, industry and revival
From manual labor to mechanization
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the invention of the knitting machine transformed the textile industry, making knitting accessible to a wider audience and also industrialized. Yet, hand knitting retains all of its charm and artisanal value.
Knitting as a family heritage and artistic expression
Knitting has also been passed down within families, from mother to daughter, from grandmother to granddaughter. At Knit-sis, this is exactly the path we have taken, with our eyes full of memories and our hands in action.
🎨 Knitting today: creativity, trends and community
Modern knitting, a multigenerational passion
Today, knitting is no longer just about classic sweaters. We're talking bold, colorful, and technical creations, thanks to independent designers like Knit-sis, who offer accessible and joyful patterns.
How Knit-sis is revolutionizing knitting
At Knit-sis, we wanted to break the mold: easy patterns, designed to help you progress, but also to have fun with original stitches, vibrant colors and a touch of poetry. We offer models like the Coquelicot Top (perfect for beginners), the Festi Vest for the more experienced, or the Strippie Sweater , simple and stylish.
FAQ – Your frequently asked questions about historical and practical knitting
Where does knitting come from?
Knitting is an ancestral technique born in the Middle East, documented since Antiquity, which gradually spread to Europe during the Middle Ages.
How to learn knitting today?
Start with a simple pattern like the Poppy Top from Knit-sis, follow our video tutorials, and practice regularly!
What are some popular knitting styles right now?
Colorful knitting, cables, openwork stitches and intarsia are very trendy, and you can explore them with our collections.
Why get started with Knit-sis?
Because our story is yours. Two sisters, a family legacy, creative, accessible, and scalable patterns. We'll guide you every step of the way, from casting on to final blocking.
🛍️ Our flagship models for getting started and progressing
▪️ Poppy Top (free pattern) : simple, lightweight, perfect for beginners.
▪️Cabbage Vest : timeless, easy and rewarding.
▪️ Festi Vest : technical and colorful, ideal for going further.
▪️Strippie Sweater : Fun, striped, and easy to explore color changing.
Discover our colorful and cheerful patterns to knit your first masterpieces → [See the Knit-sis patterns]
💡 Knit-sis tip: how to care for your knitting?
A well-cared-for knit will last for years. Wash it by hand or on a delicate cycle, dry flat, and avoid direct sunlight. Also, remember to keep notes in your knitting journal for each project!
Conclusion
The history of knitting is a wonderful adventure, a connection between generations, and a limitless creative field. At Knit-sis, we're proud to be your partners on this journey. So, what are you waiting for? Get started!
Ready to knit your first piece? Download the free Coquelicot Top pattern and start your knitting adventure today!
