#HistoryStitch: Ancient Knitting Techniques – What We Can Still Learn from the Past

01/08/2025

Long before circular needles or online tutorials, cultures across the globe developed fascinating textile techniques that balanced function, warmth, and beauty. Some have been nearly forgotten, others are making a quiet return – but all of them still have something to teach us.

Here are five historical knitting-related techniques that continue to inspire modern crafters.

🪡 1. Nålebinding – The Predecessor of Knitting & Crochet

Origin: Documented in Viking-age Scandinavia and ancient Egypt
Method: Uses a short, flat needle and short lengths of yarn
Result: Dense, durable, and non-unraveling fabric
Perfect for: Mittens, hats, and outdoor accessories

✅ If you're interested in slow crafting or historical handwork, this one is a must. A step-by-step tutorial is already in the works!

🧵 2. Twined Knitting (Uvatstrikking / Two-end Knitting)

Origin: Scandinavia, especially Norway and Sweden
Method: Two yarn strands are continuously twisted around each other
Effect: Highly elastic, thick, and weather-resistant
Known for: Traditional patterns like Selbu stars

✅ It takes time, but the result is incredibly warm and durable – ideal for winter wear.

🪢 3. Sprang – Ancient Interlacing Instead of Stitching

Technique: Works with a stretched warp, no loops or stitches
Mechanism: Threads are twisted or crossed to form fabric
History: Found in prehistoric South America and the Mediterranean
Result: Lightweight, net-like, and stretchy – similar to fishing nets

✅ Great for accessories like bags, belts, scarves, or experimental design work.

🧶 4. Lace Knitting – Orenburg & Shetland

Origin: Shetland Islands (Scotland) & Orenburg (Russia)
Features: Fine lace yarns, numerous yarn overs, intricate stitchwork
Goal: Delicate, openwork shawls – large in size, light in weight

✅ These pieces are masterpieces of skill and tradition – and true heirloom items.

✂️ 5. Steeking – Yes, You Can Cut Your Knitting

Origin: Traditional Fair Isle knitting (Scotland)
Method: Garments are knitted in the round, then cut open (e.g. for sleeves)
Benefit: Continuous colorwork with no breaks
Use: Cardigans, armholes, neck openings

✅ It sounds wild, but it works beautifully – and gives colorwork a clean, professional finish.

💡 Final Thoughts: Let the Past Guide the Present

These techniques prove that textile heritage is rich, inventive, and rooted in function. Reconnecting with these slow, mindful crafts is not just nostalgic – it's deeply satisfying and creatively liberating.

Which of these old-school methods fascinates you the most?

Have you tried any? Tell me with #strickenimtrend or join the discussion in our Facebook group!

#strickenimtrend #ancientknitting #naalbinding #twinedknitting #sprangcraft #laceknitting #steeking #slowcrafting #HistoryStitch

Let's do it!

Yours,
Kathrin ☀️🧶