Permin

From Copenhagen embroidery to knitting yarn

Christian Permin founded the business in Copenhagen on 1 April 1854. Embroidery was central to its beginnings, and the company continues to present that side of its work under the Permin Danish Art Needlework name. Its own account describes a family-owned business with a history spanning generations.

Knitting yarn has become a growing part of Permin’s business since 2010. This is a later development within an older textile company, rather than evidence that its current yarn ranges have existed since the nineteenth century. Today, yarn and knitting designs sit alongside the embroidery collection.

Understanding the by Permin collection

The by Permin name covers individual yarns with their own materials, textures and recommended uses. Permin develops knitting patterns around its collection, giving makers examples of how a yarn looks in a finished garment rather than only as a ball or skein.

Its knitting material also discusses organic fibres, recycled wool and non-mulesed wool within the assortment. Those descriptions need to remain attached to the relevant product. A company offering recycled or organic options does not make every yarn in its catalogue recycled or organic.

For a replacement, begin with the named by Permin yarn in the pattern. Compare its construction as well as its fibre blend: a smooth strand, a brushed yarn and a textured blend can produce different surfaces at a similar gauge. If the design holds two strands together, assess the combined fabric. This preserves the details that make the original garment work, while leaving room to choose a different yarn.