Knitting

The process of knitting. The process of knitting.

Knitting is a method by which yarn is used to create a looped fabric. The earliest recorded English usage of the word ‘knitting’ dates from 1598. Technically, knitting is not a form of decorative needlework, as a sewing needle is not used in its production. Nevertheless, it often features in publications about needlework.

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).

GVE

Last modified on Friday, 12 May 2017 14:41
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