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Knit and Not Knit

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Hey, Camp Folks!

Clothing and fabric is a part of everyday living and while, we may consider the fashion and style of the clothes we wear, we don’t spend much time considering the details and structure of the construction. Last year, I wrote about the ancient practice and summer camp activity of weaving. Check out that Blog post by clicking here. At first glance, weaving and knitting may seem like one and the same. But they’re actually very different in process as well as application.

Nice Threads
Knitting uses needles to create loops of thread that interlock row by row creating threading that runs parallel whereas weaving doesn’t require any needles (it traditionally requires a loom, however) and the threading runs perpendicular with an under-over style. Unlike weaving, you don’t need a loom to knit which makes it much more portable—ready to be carried out on the go.

Knot Foolin’
The name of a knit fabric is derived from the word ‘knot’. This locking part of the knitting process makes knitted fabric far superior to woven garments in terms of retaining warmth. That’s why you’ll typically find socks, sweaters, scarves, hats, and dresses are knitted. The stitching pattern gives a garment thermal properties. Woven clothes are much lighter to wear in warm temperatures.

Elastic Tactic
Another thing that sets knitted fabrics apart from woven fabrics is the elasticity. How stretchy is it? The craft of knitting makes for fabric that can stretch in all directions. Something woven, however, isn’t very stretchy at all. This typically makes for a more comfortable and luxurious piece to wear.

While the craft of weaving goes WAY back, knitting was only invented about 3000 years ago—a fraction of the history weaving has. Enjoy learning about and perfecting your own knitting abilities (maybe at your next summer camp stay). As always, thanks for reading, Folks!

 

- John

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