MEDIEVAL KNITTING In the Middle Ages, a “hot ” new thread technology

was sweeping Europe. This new technique made it easier than ever to produce colorful and luxurious textiles. It was eagerly borrowed by Europeans from the Islamic countries around the Mediterranean — along with a lot of other things from the same splendid cultural center, such as alchemy, blackwork embroidery, Greek literature, and the concept of zero. This hot new technology was knitting. It was easy to learn, and fast. Unlike weaving, it didn’t require cumbersome or expensive equipment. With a few pieces of wire and some colored thread, knitting could create anything from elaborate brocade-like designs to nicely fitted stockings to warm woolen caps. Histor