One of the most famous examples of the marriage of social purpose with
knit design was the Bohus Stickning business of Sweden. It was begun by Emma Jacobson,
the wife of the governor of the province of Bohuslan, to provide work for the wives of
unemployed stone-cutters and farmers. Bohus Stickning produced fine gauge handknit garments
of unequalled beauty and refinement inspired by, but not limited to, traditional patterns.
The Swedish government used to give their products to
visiting dignitaries. Nikita Krushchev received one
during a state visit in the '50's. With the arrical of post-war prosperity and the retirement
of Mts. Jacobson, the business gradually faded away, and Bohus Stickning
finally closed its doors in 1969.
