π¨π» How men changed the history of knitting
βI cannot let the fear of the past color the future.β
β Julie Kagawa
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In todayβs email:
- Knitspiration: The important role men have played in the history of knitting
- Stitchionary: A stitch that's only half the original
- Pattern Pick: This is not your typical ribbed scarf
- PLUS: Getting all the girls, just fishing, and more
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Knitspiration
π¨π» How men changed the history of knitting
The average person wears at least four knitted items every day.
There's a reason why you have knit socks, underwear, t-shirts, and sweaters available at any Wal-Mart or mall for ridiculously low prices.
It's the same reason why you enjoy knitting as a hobby instead of working as a production knitter.
Men.
A VERY quick history of knitting
While we don't know exactly when knitting was invented, it is theorized that it was developed around Egypt between 500 and 1200 A.D. although it could be much older. It most likely was developed from a one needle crafting technique called nalbinding.
Whatever it's origins, it was men's need for tools to work with (like fishing nets), and clothing for their jobs (like socks for sandals) which led to the creation of the craft.
Jump forward to Paris in 1268 where we find the first mention of a European knitting guild.
The groups formed as something of a labor union. They protected trade secrets, established higher standards for their finished items, and trained young apprentices in the profession.
And they were only for men.
Becoming a knitting master in a guild
Acceptance to a guild resulted in a multi-year journey of study taking the better part of a decade.
First young men would work as an apprentice, knitting production items for the guild to sell to wealthy nobles.
After 3 years they would then become a journeyman, traveling the world for a further 3-4 years. During this time they would learn new techniques and hone them to create their masterwork.
Upon returning they could apply to become full members of the guild and masters in their own right.
All they had to do was knit a few items including a cap, a woollen jacket, a pair of gloves with fingers, and a wallhanging patterned with flowers (other guilds might have had different final item requirements).
And they had only 13 weeks to complete this task.
The knitting guilds grew in power across Europe over the next few hundred years, with one becoming the 6th most important guild in Paris by 1514.
This all changed though, in 1589 with an English clergyman named William Lee.
But we'll pick up that yarn tomorrow...
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Daily Stitch
Half Fisherman's Rib Stitch
This stitch looks a lot like traditional fisherman's rib (the manliest of all knitting stitches) with one major difference.
It's only half the work! π
All kidding aside, this stitch looks like a combination of stockinette and ribbing, with shorter, fatter stitches on one side.
It's perfect for a scarf or cardigan to keep you warm while you're just fishin' with your dad.
| Learn this Stitch |
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Events
Knit-A-Long (Starts June 19th)
Perfect Fit Verano Tee
If you've wanted to begin knitting garments but aren't sure where to start, this is the perfect project for you.
This simple tee alternates between lace, garter stitch, and drop stitches so there's always something interesting to knit.
As part of this Knit-A-Long you'll get:
- Access to the Yarnist Society private community
- Video tutorials walking you through each step of the project
- Daily check-ins to keep you motivated and on track
- A LIVE kick-off and wrap-up event
- The chance to win awesome prizes
- and much more
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PLUS your purchase includes a FREE year of Yarnist Society Standard membership!
Oh, and did I mention that you'll get UNLIMITED access to the KAL videos so even if you don't finish in time you can still work on your top when you have time.
Whether this is your first garment or you just want to join in the fun, I can't wait to get started knitting with this amazing community.
I hope to see you there!
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Pattern Pick
Alumni Scarf by Kathy Hammerton
As a man, I can attest that we *usually* like simple knits.
Just not TOO simple.
But this scarf is not your typical rib pattern.
It combines two Knit/Purl combinations to create an instant classic for men or women.
The Knit/Purl combinations are easy to learn, and the rhythm will have this piece knitted up in no time.
PLUS it's 100% FREE!
| Get This Pattern |
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Knits & Giggles
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