The Fascinating History of Crochet: Who, When & Where
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Learn the amazing history of crochet from when it was first “invented” until the modern age of what we call now crocheting.
Crochet as we know it, beloved by millions around the world has a rich history. From its mysterious origins to its evolution into a modern-day hobby, crochet has traveled across and around the globe leaving behind a legacy of creativity and tradition. This blog post will be a brief history of crochet, answering questions about where it originated, where it was invented, who invented it, and how it has grown into the craft we know today.
Where did crochet originate?
That is THE question when it comes to the history of crochet. It is unclear where exactly the art of crochet originated. We do know that knitting came long before crocheting, as knitting can be dated back to ancient Egypt. Unfortunately, the early origins weren’t heavily documented, but many speculate that it originated in Arabia and others believe that it originated in indigenous South American tribes.
Some even say that suggests that crochet originated from a technique known as “tambour,” which was practiced in Asia. Tambour used a small hook to create chain stitches on fabric, much like embroidery. It’s usually known as a form of embroidery and uses small, lovely beads as part of the craft.
If you’d like to learn more about “tambour” you can find more facts here. In the 18th century, this technique was introduced to Europe, where what we know now as crochet, evolved and became the beloved yarn craft today. We can’t forget that crochet comes from the French word for hook!
Another probable precursor to crochet was “shepherds knitting”, which used a simple handmade hook used to manipulate wool and other fibers, we would call this slip-stitch crochet today. The origin of “shepherd’s knitting” is in Scotland. In addition, nalbinding is said to be a precursor or earliest evidence of crochet. This dates back to the Viking Era in Scandinavia and was defined as a knotless looped yarn technique that used a single needle. This even predates knitting.
You can see why it is hard to narrow down the true origins of crochet. It has evolved over the years, and it’s hard to say where crochet comes from truly.
Where was crochet invented?
The invention of crochet, as we know it today, is often credited to Europe, particularly in France, Italy, and Ireland, during the 19th century. Because it was accessible to people of all social classes, the fibercraft gained popularity in these regions due to its simplicity and versatility. France, in particular, played a significant role in popularizing crochet, with the publication of the first crochet patterns in the early 1800s.
In Ireland, crochet became a means of survival during the Great Irish Famine, also known as the Potato Famine. It was key to survival as many families crocheted lace to sell during this difficult time. This became known as “Irish lace” which were intricate lace pieces. This became so popular that it spread across Europe and beyond, solidifying crochet’s place in the history of textile arts.
Who invented crochet?
Have you ever heard of Mademoiselle Riego de la Branchardiere? She is often the person who is credited with inventing crochet. She is also known as the “mother of crochet” or Irish Mother. This French-Irish aristocrat is known for crochet in the way we know it today, modern crochet. She wrote the first crochet pattern that was ever published. I’m sure many were written, but she published a book of patterns in 1846 known as “Knitting, Crochet and Netting“, and she was only 18. She was very creative as well as innovative with her patterns, and really allowed for crochet to become another art form.
And Queen Victoria cannot go without mention when you speak about the history of crochet. She was a huge fan and supporter of crocheted Irish Lace. She would wear the Irish Lace to give support of the families making it to sell to alleviate their poverty during the famine. She helped increase the popularity; as she learned to crochet herself and made a few scarves for British officers, but lost her vision unfortunately, and could no longer crochet.
Who discovered crochet?
Of course, we can’t narrow it down to a single person when it comes to the discovery of crochet as the craft has truly evolved over time and across cultures. As mentioned before, other needle, hook, and yarn crafts were an influence to how it transformed into what it is today. Things like tambour embroidery and nalbinding, both from separate places in the world had a heavy impact on the development and modernizing crochet.
In Europe, the craft began to gain recognition in the 18th and 19th centuries because of Mademoiselle Riego de la Branchardiere and Queen Victoria. Not to mention, the publication of crochet patterns and the development of specific techniques. It was during this time that crochet was “discovered” by the masses, transitioning from a niche practice to a widely popular craft. How could we ever know truly who discovered crochet?
Who started crocheting?
The question of who started crochet is complex. However, it is clear that the craft was nurtured and refined by the women and families of 19th-century Europe. These people who often came from humble, modest backgrounds used this as a way to help their families financially as well as express themselves creatively.
You also can’t forget the people of Ireland who played a vital part in crochet history by making Irish Crochet Lace. Because of their tireless work to help their families, the craft became widely known and it soon grew to be a beautiful kind of art form.
Evolution of crochet
As Irish Lace gained popularity, learning to make other household items became part of crocheting. More crochet pattern books and other resources were published, which only allowed the art form to spread faster and gain more popularity.
Believe it or not, the Industrial Revolution played a role in the history of crochet. As materials for crochet such as cotton, other yarn, and crochet hooks could be mass-produced. Making this craft more accessible to people of all walks of life.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, crochet had firmly established itself as a popular craft in Europe and North America. The craft continued to evolve, with new patterns, techniques, and styles emerging. The Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements of the early 20th century also influenced crochet, leading to more modern and abstract designs.
Crochet in the Modern Era
We can’t forget the resurgence of crochet in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Many used crochet as a way to express their individuality and creativity. It was granny square EVERYTHING: vests, blankets, cardigans, sweaters, you name it and it was probably made with granny squares.
In the 21st century, we have things like YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and other social media, where tutorials, patterns, and crochet ebooks can be found. Inspiration for crochet projects can be easily found as resources are easily accessible because of the internet. There has been another resurgence today, due to the growing interest in sustainable and handmade items.
Now, people from all backgrounds practice the art of crochet in their free time, from newbies to professional designers like us crochet bloggers. Maybe this fun crochet history lesson makes you want to learn some crochet techniques to make a blanket, scarf, or cute stuffed animal! All skill levels are welcome into the crochet community!
In conclusion, the history of crochet weaves and connects different cultures, techniques, and traditions from its mysterious origins to its rise as a beloved craft for all. Its evolution and ability to adapt to the changing needs and tastes of each generation is truly inspirational and fascinating. New techniques are revealed often! It is always growing, changing, and reinventing itself with talented artists inspired by traditional crochet.
While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of crochet, its timeline, and by whom crochet was invented, it is clear that this craft has a universal appeal that goes beyond borders and centuries.
As we continue to explore new possibilities in crochet, we carry forward a legacy of creativity, resilience, and beauty that has been passed down through generations. Isn’t it cool to think about and know that we are making crochet history right now with every stitch?! Happy crocheting!
