Evolution of Kilt Stocking/hose.

[Steve Ashton]

I would disagree about the time periods for knitting in Scotland. According to what I read, knitting was well known in Scotland and the Islands in the 16th and 17th centuries. Scottish knitwear was already world famous by the beginning of the 18th century.

Fairisle is a colorwork knitting well known in the Shetlands as far back at the late 16th century.
Aran or fisherman's knits were world famous on the western islands before the 17th century.

Due to the warmth of knitted goods you will find them used anywhere the climate is cold or wet. Knitting is easily done anywhere with very little needed except yarn, needles and a free moment so is perfect for and would be a natural cottage work.

But, as knitting is usually thought of a 'woman's work' it does not show up in the history books as often.