subject: A Trivia on the Illustrious European Knitting Chronicles [print this page] A Trivia on the Illustrious European Knitting Chronicles
History and climate were the two main factors why knitting developed to an absolutely fascinating degree in Europe. The craft may have started elsewhere in the world and may even have been spread by other people but it is in the diverse cultures of the Continent that it flowered and was exquisitely nurtured.
Knitting began to be popular in the Middle Ages, during the era of royal pomp and circumstance. Initially reserved only for their exclusive patronage, knitted products somehow soon got filtered to the masses. In the wake of the renaissance in thought and the revolution in the manner of living, the monarchal austere and drab designs exploded into styles unlimited by tradition or edict. The growing popularity gave impetus to a household occupation in cottage industries that were soon overtaken by workers guilds and factories. Although the methods themselves became more or less standardized, regional differences were reflected on the products.
The British Isles were in the center of these developments. Not only were customary and established patterns adapted, but local preferences were improved upon then incorporated into the overall field of choices. A natural offshoot was the invention of knitting frames and machines that took much of the manual aspects of manufacture, especially where human error was considered crucial.
England and Scotland vied for the exportation business although it was in France that the trade union first sprang. Intricate techniques were perfected, both for smaller pieces like gloves and stockings, and bigger items like sweaters and overcoats. More varied styles and approaches were also obtained from even remote locations, and were later adapted to the over-all offering of assortments.
An English clergy named William Lee in 1589 invented the first knitting machine, which remained the industry standard for more than 250 years. This was supplemented by a ribbing device in 1748, a warping machine in 1775, and a circular knitter in the 1880's. Better production speeds and wider variety were made possible with another bearded-spring needle knitting machine was introduced by William Cotton in 1864.
In the face of these then rapid developments, many home cottage-industries banded together to work on piecemeal basis, where they cooperated in working on particular sections of a garment to be later brought and sewn together. The method would soon be given recognition in later generations as the mass production technique in factories. Even so, they soon realized that in order to compete in this increasingly more and more popular form of clothing accessorizing, they had to offer something the machines cannot supply: intricate beauty and artistry.
The focus on the concept of beauty and craft amazingly directed knitting on an independently uncompromising state, existing purely as an individual or personal hobby. The ardent proponents grew more venturesome, and today contribute proudly to the art.
Today, knitting stands as a non-traditional expression of cultural mastery. Appreciation has metamorphosed into awe and skill has alchemized into creativity. What was fashion before is now art, and what was archaic previously is now avant-garde.
