K is for Knitting

Cut Backing Fabric 8½ x 9½. Finish Size 7 x 8 ins

The V&A has a pair of knitted socks from Egypt dating from the 3rd to 5th century

In England, The Cappers Act of 1571 stated that every person above the age of six years should wear a knitted cap on Sundays and on holidays. This act protected the livelihoods of the cappers.

The stocking frame was the first mechanical knitting machine and was invented by William Lee of Calverton, near Nottingham, in 1589. 

Knitting was such an important occupation among those living on the Scottish Isles during the 17th and 18th centuries that whole families were involved in making of socks, hats and jumpers

Aran jumpers, also known as fishermen jumpers,  were knitted from the natural, undyed sheep’s wool where the natural oils within made the jumpers waterproof,  perfect for the Irish weather. The sweaters were knitted by mothers and wives for the islander men.

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