If you have recently become interested in knitting, then you have a rich heritage to draw on from right across the world. Knitting is an art that occurred in almost all cultures over thousands of years with deep-rooted traditions being developed. Here are some examples of iconic patterns you can try from across the globe:
- Fair Isle, Scotland
This old knitting tradition hails from the Shetland Islands where the weather is harsh and there are lots of sheep! It is recognised by its motif of horizontal coloured bands and geometric patterns that are repeated in multiple rows. It is thought to be influenced by Scandinavian knitting styles. To find out more about Knitting Kits For Beginners, visit stitch and story knitting kits
2. Lusekofte, Norway
From such a snowy and cold country comes a thick, warm and durable type of knitting originating from the 19th century. The design features tiny dots, stars and geometric patterns usually in two colours. Sweaters are distinctive due to the embroidered neckline and cuffs.
3. Aran, Ireland
Aran sweaters are renowned across the world and were worn by fishermen from the Aran Islands, off the west coast of Ireland. These chunky knits are made using predominantly cream yarn and designed with cables, diamonds and honeycomb patterns.
4. Lopapeysa, Iceland
This is a fairly recent tradition, arising in the 1950s. The designs are based on national identity and found from old knitted mittens or inspiration from the surrounding landscape. To be officially lopapeysa, an item has to meet strict guidelines such as being hand knitted from unspun wool of Icelandic sheep.
