A NEW exhibition at the Ruskin Museum compares Lithuanian knitting with the historic knitting industry of the Dales and Cumbria.

Running at the acclaimed Coniston venue until June 5, the exhibition accompanies the recent book by Penrith's June Hall and Donna Druchanas from the United States.

Entitled Lithuanian Knitting: Continuing Traditions, the book is the culmination of a decade of research by the authors.

The Ruskin exhibition features Lithuanian knitting traditions, showing gloves, mittens and socks from the country’s distinct cultural regions. Like the book it contains much more - travel, personal stories, folk art, costume and history. In addition, the book also contains 25 knitting patterns recreated from June’s collection by Donna, so that people can knit their own items.

June was Cumbria Woman of the Year in 2012/13, and is a local historian by profession. She has a lifelong interest in textiles, both the history and practice, especially of wool. She keeps a small flock of rare breed Soay sheep.

Since 2004 many Lithuanians have visited Cumbria as part of June’s project to foster mutual interest in Lithuania and the UK. Students and textile artists have spent time exploring Cumbria and taking part in Woolfest.

Also on show is a replica knee rug, made by June and based on the one in Dove Cottage, Grasmere, claimed to have been made for William Wordsworth around his 70th birthday.

Several workshops are being held to tie with the exhibition: still to come one on Tuesday, May 17, followed by another on Tuesday, May 31. For full details and to book telephone the museum on 015394-41164.