Industrial Revolution: Machine knitting transformed the industry, while hand knitting became both a necessity for the poor and a leisure activity for the middle and upper classes. Women knitted socks and items for soldiers during wartime—particularly notable during both World Wars.
Scandinavia: Norwegian and Icelandic traditions developed distinctive colorwork techniques. The iconic Icelandic lopapeysa (circular yoke sweater) actually emerged in the 1950s, showing how "traditional" patterns continue evolving.
Middle East and Asia: Ottoman court knitting produced incredibly fine stockings and textiles. In Asia, different textile traditions dominated, though knitting existed—Japan embraced knitting enthusiastically after Western contact, developing unique techniques.