#shetland

In Shetland they start knitting early: Little Chrissie Cheyne with cat. J. Peterson, 1930s.

Lerwick, Shetland, UK

six Shetland fleeces as seen from the underside and exterior of the coat! I got these at cost from one of the farmers last week when I helped out with shearing. I am so excited to work with this beautiful wool. coat types are variable but generally fine, woolly, longer staple with not a whole ton of hair in the fleece. for the non sheep reader- Shetland are famous for coming in a bazillion different natural colors and patterns. I am going to try to match these up to their traditional Norn language names for wool colors :-)

Shetland, Scotland 19th century

Initially purchased for the collection in 1978, this ‘Ladies Dress Shawl’ was reputedly commissioned by Edward Standen and Co., London importer of Shetland lace knitting, for display at the Great Exhibition in 1851. A burnous is a North African cloak with fronts that often end as points. It has a simple hood that drapes down the back. It is often made in striped fabric and tassels decorate the hood and front.

Broch of Mousa, Shetland (1968, Historic Scotland Photographic Library)

The Pennanular Brooches of the St Ninians Isle Treasure, Early Medieval, National Museums Scotland, Edinburgh