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Have you ever been at a loss for ideas on how to strike up a conversation with a fellow knitter? Here are some knitting facts you can use as ice-breakers to get you started next time it happens.

KNITTING FACT #1

Knitting is centuries old – since knitting materials tend to degrade with time, it is hard to pinpoint when knitting appeared. According to historical sources, it seems to have been brought by the Crusaders from the Middle East. The term “knitting” is mentioned in the 14th century for the first time.

KNITTING FACT #2

A former type of knitting was done with just one needle. A cross over between knitting and crocheting was being practiced even by the Ancient Egyptians!

KNITTING FACT #3

In the 16th century France, knitting was an occupation for males only. Go figure!

KNITTING FACT #4

The first knitting machine was invented in 1589. The man who came with the idea was named William Lee and it was under the Queen Elizabeth I that this happened. From that point forward, knitting became a leisure activity mostly performed by hand inside the home.

KNITTING FACT #5

During World War I, women had the national duty to knit socks, scarves and caps for the soldiers fighting across the battlefields. While many sent knitted items to their family members stationed in cold areas, others knitted for the sake of every soldier in the land.

KNITTING FACT #6

Did you know that knitting can reduce heart rate, blood pressure and it relaxes, so that the body can fight illness better?

KNITTING FACT #7

In the beginning, cotton and silk were more popular than wool as knitting yarn.

KNITTING FACT #8

A book by Johann Siebmacher was published in 1611, as the first documentation of no fewer than 126 knitting patterns!

KNITTING FACT #9

You may think that knitting needles should only be made of metal or wood, but back in the days they were made of far more exotic materials, such as ivory, tortoise shell or bones.