Knitting
Knitting is one of the most favourite and popular the woman’s hobbies.
The first knitters in Europe were men. However, only women have been knitting in the Baltic region. Knitting was known in the region since XII-XV century. In ancient Lithuania ribbon for knee, socks and gloves had been knitted with wooden and bone knitting needles. The knitting had been used as a protection from cold as well as a decoration during wedding or funereal events. Every piece of knitting used to have different patterns and ornaments. Until XIX century woman used to use natural wool and flaxen yarns which have been dyed with natural colours. Later on they have been using synthetic colours.
Most ornaments had been geometrical in the beginning. Knitters and weavers had not mixed their ornaments. Later on floral and animal motives have appeared. Knitters and weavers have started sharing each other ornaments.
The first ornaments in Lithuania had been published in folk art albums. These ornaments spread all around Lithuania and have been adapt in original way. People like simple and original knitting craft.