The feature was inspired by the launch of a book charting their work - In the Loop: Knitting Now by Jessica Hemmings who is currently Associate Director of the Centre for Visual and Cultural Studies at the Edinburgh College of Art, Scotland.
In the Loop unveils the cultural impact of knitting investigating issues such as protest knitting, international knitting traditions, the oral history of knitting and knitting technology. Knitting was originally a way to make a living - but over the years this distinct craft turned into a dreary and unfashionable skill associated with a dying generation. But in recent years, knitting has made a huge comeback spawning knit clubs, shops, books, activities and even knitting conferences. Knitting has clearly gone a long way from the dull image of ill-fitting jumpers, clumpy socks or overly long and wonky scarves. What's more, what was a lonely hobby for 'old maids' has become a social trend for twenty-somethings as well as a mainstream craft.
Some of the contemporary knitters in Hemmings' book include Freddie Robins who strives for perfection in her craft, knitting a series of knitted people such as the aptly named 'The Perfect Body'. Mark Newport is a knitter who knits superhero outfits not for fancy dress but to raise deep questions on masculinity, heroism and alter egos. Another big designer featured in the book is Deirdre Nelson who is known for her humour and ability to master traditional techniques
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