 Iceland
and wool have been bound together since the first Vikings settled the island
which lead to the creation of very popular Icelandic
sweaters of today. The Vikings brought sheep and other animals
with them which made Iceland a country of hardy long-haired sheep, whose
wool combines
the qualities of softness, sturdiness, and water resistance found in Icelandic
sweaters. Not surprisingly, knitted and woven wollens have always been
a necessity in the northern climate.
The fleece of Icelandic sheep consists of a long outer layer called
tog and a short, fine underhair called pel. Tog was combed and spun into
strong
cord for sewing and weaving; the finest tog is similar to mohair and
was used for fine lacy shawls and embroidery. Pel was used to make garments,
the softest pel of all being produced by brown and grey sheep.
Growing up in Iceland in the 16th century, hand made crafts such as
knitting, crocheting and embroidery were a part  of
everyday life. The craft of knitting
quickly became the country's principal export. Knitting Icelandic
sweaters requires no investment in equipment beyond a set of
knitting needles and the raw materials, so was available as a source
of income to the
poorest
inhabitants. Most Icelandic knitting was strictly utilitarian, though
it was also an avenue for creative expression. Icelandic
sweaters were
traded
all over the Atlantic region, arriving in America during the early years
of settlement.
Icelandic
sweaters are inspired by the beauty and power of spectacular landscapes,
the decorative arts throughout Iceland history, and the heritage
of European textiles. Icelandic sweaters have attracted a loyal following
of women to whom artistry in knitwear is essential.
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Brands |
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