Knots of Fun: Unraveling Adventures at French Knitting Club
This week, at French Knitting Club we have worked our fingers, eagerly embracing the joy of wrapping yarn around a frame to create beautiful cords. As we learn this timeless craft, we’re mastering a skill; delving into history and tradition and connecting with generations of crafters who have found solace and creativity in the rhythmic motion of knitting.
Did You Know?
Did you know that French knitting dates back to the 16th century? It is believed to have originated in France during the Renaissance period, where it was initially practiced by artisans as a method of creating cords and braids for embellishing garments, household items and even military uniforms. The technique involves wrapping yarn around pegs on a small cylindrical frame and using a hook or needle to pull loops of yarn over each other, resulting in a tightly knit cord.
Interestingly, French knitting gained popularity among children during the Victorian era, where it was often taught in schools as a means of developing fine motor skills and encouraging creativity. It was also a common pastime for young girls in households, who would spend hours crafting colorful cords to be used as decorations or accessories.