The year is 1956. Elvis Presley makes his first television appearance, superglue is invented, Morocco gains independence, and experts in knitting technology meet and found the IFKT.
From 30th of July to 1st of August 1956, the Trade and Export Fair took place in Dornbirn, during which a textile fair was also held. It was there that Prof. Ernst Prusa organised the first-ever meeting of knitting experts from various countries, as well as from industry and research. The main reason for this gathering was the desire for a standardised technical notation in the knitting industry, as differing systems often led to misunderstandings and confusion.
Prof. Prusa hoped that, through international exchange and collaboration, a technically standardised notation with international recognition could be established. Furthermore, he aimed to strengthen networking among experts and create a platform for discussions on innovations and current issues facing the industry.
As the first meeting was seen as a great success, it was decided to hold another conference the very following year. The group met again in 1957 as part of the Dornbirn Trade and Export Fair, where the decision was finally taken to found an official federation.
In the winter of 1957, around christmas time, Hans Keller (Switzerland), Robert Aicher (Switzerland), Hermann Mundel (Germany) and Herrmann Kirchenberger (Austria) came together to formally establish the organisation. Hans Keller was elected President and Robert Aicher Vice-President, which is why Switzerland became the registered office. Hermann Mundel took on the role of Secretary General, whilst Herrmann Kirchenberger was made responsible for press relations.
With this step, the IFKT was officially founded as an association and began organising regular international conferences from then on. The statutes drawn up at the time of the foundation remain valid to this day. The focus is on friendly and professional cooperation across national borders, as well as mutual exchange for the further development of the knitting industry. The promotion of young talents is also of particular importance, which is why young professionals are deliberately involved in the work of the IFKT.
Although the international conferences are now held every two years, the IFKT can look back on a remarkable record of continuity. This long-standing consistency is the reason why the 52nd International Conference is being held this year.
