Knitting

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Knit-schematic

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Knitting wales slip stitch

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Rundstrickmaschine Zungennadeln

Knitting is a method by which yarn is manipulated to create a textile or fabric; it is used in many types of garments. Knitting can be done by hand or by machine, and various techniques have evolved over time to produce textiles with different properties and aesthetic qualities. The basic action of knitting involves interlocking loops of yarn in a series of connected stitches, using knitting needles or machines.

History

The history of knitting is believed to have its origins in the Middle East, from where it spread to Europe via Mediterranean trade routes. The earliest known examples of knitting have been found in Egypt, dating back to between the 11th and 14th centuries CE. Initially, knitting was a manual craft practiced primarily by men. Over the centuries, it evolved into a widely practiced skill among women, especially in Europe, where it became a domestic activity.

Types of Knitting

There are two main types of knitting: weft knitting and warp knitting. Weft knitting is the most common type, where the yarn runs back and forth across the fabric. Warp knitting, on the other hand, involves the yarn running down the length of the fabric. Each type produces different characteristics in the fabric, with weft knitting being more stretchy and warp knitting producing a more dense and less stretchy fabric.

Knitting Techniques

Several techniques are fundamental to knitting, including casting on (beginning the fabric), knitting and purling (the basic stitches), and casting off (ending the fabric). Other techniques, such as increasing, decreasing, and yarn over, allow for shaping and patterning of the knit fabric.

Materials

The choice of yarn plays a significant role in the outcome of a knitted project. Yarns vary in thickness, fiber content, color, and texture, each contributing to the look and feel of the finished piece. Knitting needles also vary in size and shape, affecting the size of the stitches and the overall gauge of the knitting.

Cultural Significance

Knitting has played a significant role in many cultures. During the World Wars, women knitted clothing and accessories for soldiers, making knitting a patriotic act. In recent years, knitting has seen a resurgence as a hobby and a form of craftivism, with movements such as yarn bombing highlighting knitting's role in social and political activism.

Modern Knitting

Today, knitting is both a hobby and a profession for many. The internet has allowed for the sharing of patterns and techniques, fostering a global knitting community. Knitting podcasts, blogs, and social media groups provide knitters with inspiration, education, and a sense of community. Additionally, the slow fashion movement has embraced knitting as a sustainable method of producing clothing and textiles.

See Also

• Crochet
• Textile arts
• Handicraft

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