Do you know your craft? Discover some fascinating facts about knitting and crochet.

5 Things You Didn't Know About Knitting & Crochet

The Ancient Pyramids are full of yarn! (Probably)

Early examples of hand-knitted garments were found to originate in Egypt from the 3rd - 5th Century AD, and used cotton fibres. A pair of toe socks are among the oldest knitted artefacts, made using a single-needle technique that’s similar to sewing.

Queen Elizabeth I wasn’t a fan of knitting machines

When William Lee invented the first knitting machine in 1589, he took it to Queen Liz and showed her how it could be used to make stockings out of both wool and silk. He needed her approval to get a patent, but she refused over concerns about the future of the hand-knitting industry if the machine became popular. 

In 1598, poor William tried again, asking King James I for a patent, but sadly got turned down a second time. It was a very tough crowd on Dragon’s Den back in the day!

Granny Squares are for life, not just for the 60s

The first documented pattern for a ‘granny-square’ was published in London in 1897. Since their popularity grew in the sixties, Granny Squares have remained a firm crochet favourite. Their versatility means they can be transformed into anything from blankets to bags. It’s a familiar motif that continues to appear in contemporary fashion.