Worldwide Knit in Public Day is celebrated on the second Saturday of June every year. The objective of the holiday is to showcase knitting as an enjoyable activity to partake in — for all ages, not just doting grandparents looking to make a sweater for their darling grandchildren. The day brings with it a sense of community for knitters, who often celebrate together by knitting in public spaces to make their hobby more visible and accessible to the public. Worldwide Knit in Public Day was founded in 2005 by Danielle Landes and remains the world’s largest knitting event.
History of Worldwide Knit in Public Day
Knitting happens to be one of the oldest ways of making clothes. The earliest known accounts of knitting date it back to — at least — fifth-century Egypt. Egyptians used to knit cotton fibers, not wool. During this period, it was common for knitwear to have blessings or symbols knitted into them to avoid bad luck for the wearer. The practice later reached Europe through Mediterranean trade routes and the Americas with colonialism.Knitting soon spread across the globe. Knitted weatherproof sweaters for sailors became relatively common in the 14th century. The advent of the Industrial Revolution brought with it the automation of tasks — knitting was no different. Knitting machines began being used to knit hosiery for the elite. A local knitting industry slowly emerged in Scotland, which began the production of knitted stockings for circulation across Europe. The first knitting loom was built in 1816, and the first even woolen textile factory was opened in 1856 by Eugene Rodier.By the 20th century, knitwear had become deeply ingrained in the fabric of the modern fashion industry. It was featured in countless fashion collections, from lesser-known creatives to well-established luxury brands like Chanel. Today, knitwear is a part of wearable fashion throughout the year. The warmer months are full of knitted tops, dresses, and co-ord sets, and the colder weather is made a little bearable by warm sweaters, caps, mufflers, gloves, and balaclavas, among other knitted items.
Worldwide Knit in Public Day timeline
The first known instances of knitting begin happening in Egypt.
Weatherproof sweaters are knitted for sailors.
The first knitting loom is built.
Eugene Rodier opens the first woolen textiles factory.
Worldwide Knit in Public Day FAQs
What are the two types of knitting?
There are two types of basic knitting techniques — the English method and the German method.
What is a knitting stitch called?
Knitting stitches are called ‘knit’ and ‘purl.’
What do you call a person who knits?
People who knit are referred to as ‘knitters.’
Worldwide Knit in Public Day Activities
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Learn basic knitting
If you haven’t tried it before, learn the basics of knitting today. It’s easier than you think!
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Have a knitting party
If knitting is something you and your friends enjoy, or want to try, invite a few of them over to have a knitting party. Not only is it a fun activity, but you get to spend time with friends!
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Find a W.K.I.P. event near you
If you live in a country that has W.K.I.P. events, try to find and attend one near you. Go online and do some research, you’re bound to find one!
Why We Love
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The origin of yarn
The earliest known evidence of yarn dates back to 7,000 years ago.
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Mental boost
Knitting has been found to lower stress levels in individuals.
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Men only
In 16th century France, knitting was viewed as a profession exclusive to men.
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National duty
During WWI, American women were entrusted with the national duty to knit socks, scarves, and caps for the soldiers deployed to fight in the war.
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Etymology
The word ‘knitting’ comes from ‘cnyttan,’ which means ‘to knot.’
Why We Love Worldwide Knit in Public Day
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It’s an excuse to learn a new skill
Knitting is a fascinating skill to learn. Worldwide Knit in Public Day is a perfect excuse to give it a try.
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Knitting has a fascinating history
The craft has a fascinating history. Worldwide Knit in Public Day is a great opportunity to learn about it.
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It’s a fun way to bond
Knitters are a tightly knit community. Finding people who have similar hobbies is a wonderful way to form new bonds.
Worldwide Knit in Public Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | June 10 | Saturday |
| 2024 | June 8 | Saturday |
| 2025 | June 14 | Saturday |
| 2026 | June 13 | Saturday |
| 2027 | June 12 | Saturday |
