Have you been knitting or crocheting for years and wondered where these crafts actually came from? Or are you a complete beginner looking to be inspired by world record-holders? Dive into a world of fun and fascinating facts about knitting and crocheting, exploring everything from the history of knitting to the quirky phenomenon of yarn bombing!
1. Knitting as A Royal Hobby
Did you know that Queen Victoria was a fan of knitting? The Britsh Queen wielded a pair of knitting needles herself, and her love for the craft had a remarkable impact on the popularity of knitting during the Victorian era.
Before her reign, knitting was actually often seen as a necessity or a chore relegated to the lower classes. However, Queen Victoria’s royal engagement with knitting elevated its status, transforming it into a respectable hobby for people of all social classes. By the end of her reign, knitting had become a standard skill taught to young girls across Britain. Just picture a queen sitting in her palace, needles clicking away. A real knitting influencer in other words!
2. The History of Knitting: When WAs Knitting Invented?
Ever wondered when knitting was invented? This knitting fact might actually blow your mind! Knitting dates back to at least the 11th century, with some of the earliest known knitted items—such as cotton socks—being discovered in ancient Egypt. These socks had intricate patterns and Arabic scripts, demonstrating the artistic skills and techniques of the ancient knitters. However, no one is completely sure exactly when knitting was invented.
But if you’re wondering what came first: knitting or crochet? It’s knitting! Crocheting’s origins can be traced back to the 16th hundreds. So, while both crafts are ancient, knitting has been around a tiny bit longer.
3. Men Were the Original Knitters
Here’s another surprising facts about knitting: it was once a male-only occupation! As a matter of fact; the first knitting union was established in Paris in 1527 and didn’t even allow women to join. Knitting was serious business back then, dominated by men who meticulously crafted garments for hours on end. This male monopoly lasted until the invention of the knitting machine in the late 1500s, which shifted knitting from a profession to a leisurely activity. Once knitting became a hobby after it opened the door for women to participate and after Queen Victoria made it popular, knitting was turned into the inclusive craft we know today.
4. Crocheting for Survival: A Fact About Yarn Crafting
Crocheting also has its own story of survival and resilience. During the Irish Potato Famine during the late 1840’s, many Irish people turned to crocheting as a means of earning a livelihood. Many of them created intricate lace patterns, which we know today as Irish crochet. These garments went on to be sold all across Europe and America, and did not only help families survive the famine but it also preserved the beautiful crocheting craft.
The next time you see a delicate lace doily, remember it’s not just a pretty piece – it’s a historic symbol of human hope and endurance, rooted in the history of knitting and crochet.
5. Knitting was Used During the World Wars
One of the lesser-known facts about knitting is its role during the world wars. During World War I, women were encouraged to knit socks, scarves, and caps for soldiers fighting in the front lines. This was continued in World War II and eventually the patterns in the knitting garments were also used to send coded messages to the troops. Knitting played an much more important role th The tradition of knitting for soldiers helped foster a sense of community and purpose among those on the home front, proving that knitting could be both comforting and cunning.
6. Knitting Has a Unique Language of Its Own
Did you know that knitting has its own unique terminology? Knitters use specific terms to describe techniques, stitches, and tools, creating a language that differs from everyday conversation. For example, “frogging” refers to the act of unraveling your work (like a frog jumping backward), while “WIP” stands for “work in progress.” This specialized vocabulary not only fosters a sense of community among knitters but also makes it easier to share patterns and techniques across different cultures and languages. So, the next time you hear someone talk about “casting on” or “gauge,” you’ll know they’re speaking the language of knitters!
Want to learn more about the principles of frogging? Read about frogging your knitting in this article.
7. Knitting Can Be Used as a Form of Therapy
Knitting and crocheting aren’t just good for crafting new cool pieces and garments —they’re great for your mind too! Many studies have shown that engaging in these crafts can be great in promoting mental health. The rhythmic, repetitive motions of knitting and crocheting encourage relaxation, reduce stress, and even help improve cognitive functions. Some therapists recommend these crafts as a form of mindfulness, where the focus required helps clear the mind and promotes a sense of peace and fulfillment. Additionally, engaging in social crafting groups can contribute to a feeling of self-efficacy!
8. Record-Breaking Knitting Facts: The World’s Fastest Knitters and Crocheters
Just like any craft, some knitters and crocheters take their skills to extraordinary levels. The world’s fastest knitter, Miriam Tegels, can whip up an incredible 118 stitches per minute. Meanwhile, a record-breaking 3,083 people once knitted simultaneously at the Royal Albert Hall in London. On the crochet side, Corinna Richards from the UK currently holds the Guinness World Record for the longest crocheted scarf by an individual, measuring 834 feet 8 inches (254.43 meters) as of March 17, 2023.
But there’s a new contender! Daisy Ptak from Richmond, California, crocheted a scarf that stretches an impressive 982 feet. Ptak’s scarf, which took 376 days and around 250 skeins of yarn to complete, is now under review by Guinness World Records after being measured on April 1, 2024. If confirmed, Ptak will claim the new title for the longest crochet scarf. Talk about dedication!
9. A Fun Fact About Yarn Bombing and Urban Art
Ever heard about the term yarn bombing? The phenomenon is more or less exactly what it sounds like; it looks like a bomb of yarn went off. Knitters and crocheters create vibrant, colorful pieces to decorate public spaces – a form of street art that transforms urban environments, covering trees, benches, and even buses with knitted or crocheted designs. It’s a playful way to bring warmth and color to otherwise drab spaces, and it’s a testament to how these crafts continue to evolve and inspire creativity in new and unexpected ways. When talking about fun facts about knitting, yarn bombing is definitely worth mentioning!
10. From Celebrities to Granny Squares
Knitting and crocheting have made their way into popular culture, and Queen Victoria isn’t the only celebrity to have picked up a pair of needles or hooks. For example, did you know that Aretha Franklin, Madonna, and Kurt Cobain were all avid crocheters? This proves that crocheting and knitting appeal to a wide range of people, regardless of age, status, or background. And speaking of crochet, let’s give a shoutout to the Granny Square—a beloved crochet pattern that has been around since the late 1800s and remains a favorite for beginners and experts alike. With its endless variations and possibilities, the Granny Square embodies the versatility and timelessness of crochet, adding to the history of knitting and crochet.
