![]() Rather than choosing from mass-produced designs, buyers can order socks in almost any color or pattern. Custom SocksĬontinued improvements in technology allow for the affordable customization of socks. Customizable socks are still made of nylon stretch yarn for a comfortable fit with superior cushioning and moisture-wicking properties. After the war ended, nylon re-emerged as a leading material for socks and stockings on the consumer market. Knitted socks made of other materials remained daily standards among civilians, with methods of production varying between hand- and machine-knitting based on economic circumstances. ![]() Nylon stockings debuted at the 1939 New York World’s Fair and began being sold in 1940.ĭuring World War II, nylon supplies were diverted to the war effort. In 1935, DuPont developed the first commercially successful thermoplastic polymer after eight years of research. The next major innovation in socks was technological. Hand-knitting allowed for the production of custom socks, but machine-knitted products remained more affordable. While the United States did not ration clothing, popular designs reduced fabric usage and materials such as cotton, rayon and blends became more popular. Clothing was rationed in the United Kingdom and old woolen garments were unpicked and reused to produce socks. The American Red Cross issued an urgent call for knitted goods in 1917 that led to a large response from hand-knitters and the widespread use of knitting machines.Ī worldwide shortage of materials such as wool and silk coincided with World War II. The first World War saw the frequent occurrence of trench foot as water-repellent boots ripped at the seams and hobnails in the soles transferred cold temperatures to wearers’ damp socks and feet. Circular knitting technologies advanced throughout the 19th century. The Derby Ribber patented by Jedediah Strutt in 1759 allowed for the production of ribbed stockings and garter stitch. Knitting loom technology spread across Europe over the next century and was gradually modernized during the 17th and 18th centuries. Queen Elizabeth I rejected the products of this mechanized technology in favor of custom made socks from Spain, but Lee obtained the patronage of King Henri IV of France and built the first stocking factory in Rouen. An English clergyman named William Lee created the stocking frame and used it to make wool stockings. The invention of the mechanical knitting machine in 1589 transformed the way socks were produced. The 16th century saw the use of sumptuary laws to regulate the use of foreign products or materials deemed too luxurious for people of lower social ranks. Homespun garments were made and worn by much of the population while aristocrats preferred silk stockings.īy the late 15th century, breeches and hand-knitted hosiery were joined together to create tights. Knitted garments became more common throughout Europe during the 14th century. The earliest knitted socks in Europe were crafted in the 13th century by artisans employed by Spanish royalty. Examples of these socks have been found at Antinoe and Oxyrhynchus, though it remains unclear whether these garments were worn everyday or only used as ceremonial offerings for the dead. The first knit socks in Ancient Egypt were made between the fourth and fifth century through a process called “nalbinding.” These socks feature split toes and were intended for wear with sandals. Some of the earliest known woolen socks are child-sized garments found at an archeological dig at Vindolanda, a Roman auxiliary fort in northern England, which date back to the second century. This concept spread throughout the empire. ![]() ![]() Udones and Woven Woolīy the second century, Roman soldiers wore “udones” consisting of fabric sewn together in a manner that resembled modern socks. ![]() Romans were also known to wrap their feet and lower legs in strips of leather or fabric. In the eighth century B.C., the Greek poet Hesiod referred to “piloi,” or garments made of matted animal hair worn under sandals. The earliest socks were animal skins tied around the ankles. Find out more about how sock-making methods developed over time, from the invention of the weaving loom to the advanced materials used in custom socks today.Ĭave paintings and archeological finds indicate that humans have worn foot coverings since the Stone Age. HOW TO MASS MAKE SOCKS SKINSocks have a long and storied history that started with the use of animal skin and hair and continues with woven fabrics. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |