Knitting consists of a series of loops on one or more long, blunt rods or ‘needles’ (not sewing needles) and a continuous length of thread. The origins of this technique are unknown, but it may have originated in the Middle East and date from at least the twelfth century.
A knitted fabric consists of two or more consecutive rows of loops (stitches). As each row progresses, a new loop is pulled through an existing loop. Knitting can be carried out by hand or by machine. The use of different types of yarns and knitting needles can produce a wide range of different types of material, with a variety of appearances and textures. The end product is often used for garments, as well as blankets, cushion covers, etc.
Sources: Shorter Oxford English Dictionary: 'Knitting'.
Digital source of illustration (retrieved 7th July 2016).
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