10 Things I Loved About Shetland (And Why I Can’t Wait to Go Back!)

1. The Wool that Blooms

My love affair with Shetland wool began when I discovered Jamieson & Smith Grab Bags and Cones during a Black Friday event at The Woolly Thistle. Shetland wool has a unique “bloom”—a soft expansion that happens after knitting, creating a fabric that feels warm and cohesive. It’s lightweight yet incredibly durable, which means that my garments look just as good after many wears as they did on day one.

Here I am in front of the iconic Jamieson & Smith! By chance, I was staying just down the street, so I had the pleasure of visiting every day. I got to meet the talented Ella Gordon and see her stunning Vegr Vest up close, which I cannot wait to cast on myself! Also pictured is Oliver Henry, hard at work sorting and grading wool.

2. Fair Isle’s Timeless Beauty

Fair Isle knitting is a tradition that’s stood the test of time. The two-color technique, using just two shades per row, introduced me to the world of stranded knitting. Gudrun Johnston’s Huxter Hat was my first Fair Isle project, and it showed me just how much you can do with more than one color! Every time I knit a Fair Isle pattern, I feel connected to knitters who came before me, continuing a rich legacy that’s still alive in Shetland today.

Here I am, meeting Ronnie of Uradale Farms—Shetland’s only organic source of wool—while wearing my Island to Island Vest, a Fair Isle design from Grand Shetland Adventure Knits by MJ Mucklestone and Gudrun Johnston.

3. Gudrun Johnston

When I knit Gudrun Johnston’s Hansel Hap, I felt like I was getting a true taste of Shetland knitting. Generally, a ‘hap’ is a warm covering, often worn as an outer layer against Shetland’s winds. Gudrun’s design starts from the center square and works outward, giving a fresh twist to this classic style. Through this pattern, I learned a technique for joining wool during color changes—no ends to weave in! Gudrun quickly became one of my favorite designers. Her patterns capture such beauty and creativity, and I’ve found myself coming back to them again and again. 

Here I am with her and my friend, Catarina Furmark, after meeting her in Shetland! I just happened to be wearing her Heritage Yoke sweater knitted with Jamieson & Smith 2ply.

4. A Wool for Every Layer

Shetland wool is incredibly versatile. From sweaters to sturdy hats, it’s the perfect fiber for any layer. Soft enough to wear against the skin yet tough enough for daily wear, it holds up beautifully over time. I love working with 2-ply woolen-spun Shetland wool from various sources across the island, which gives it natural warmth and breathability. This allows me to layer without feeling bulky. In Shetland’s often wet and windy climate, this wool was made to keep you warm, but I’ve found it equally useful for everyday wear no matter where I am.

For the first picture, I am standing in Isleburgh at the Doull Family Farm, wearing my Dunrobin Sweater designed by our very own Corinne Tomlinson and the Cloud Drift Cowl another lovely design by Gudrun. 

In the second photo, I have found some actual woolly thistle on a hillside while wearing my Riggies Cardi—another beautiful design by Gudrun.

5. The Colors of Shetland

I can’t talk about Shetland wool without mentioning the colors. From soft heathered tones to bold hues inspired by the island’s natural beauty, Shetland wool offers a unique palette. Each skein seems to capture a bit of Shetland itself—the grays of stormy skies, earthy browns of peat, vibrant greens of grassy hills, and even unexpected pops of yellow and orange that have really grown on me. These colors make Fair Isle knitting especially engaging, blending and contrasting in ways that feel both classic and fresh. I’ve even found myself reaching for shades I never thought I’d use!

During my tour of the Jamieson’s of Shetland Factory in Sandness, I caught a glimpse of the depth and artistry behind the shades they were blending that particular day, each telling its own story.

Here's a moment I'll never forget—seeing the colors of wool being expertly blended at Jamieson’s of Shetland. Meeting Garry Jamieson himself was the cherry on top; he's completely hands-on with the process, making sure each batch captures the essence of Shetland.

6. The Heritage of Shetland Knitting

Shetland knitting is more than just a craft—it’s a living tradition. The history of the Shetland hap, the iconic fishermen’s sweaters, and the evolution of Fair Isle designs are all woven into each garment. What’s even more inspiring is that Shetland knitting remains such a vital part of the island’s identity. The patterns may evolve, but the heart of the craft stays true to its roots. These photos showcase beautifully preserved garments that were discovered in an attic, dating back generations, which are now being used as a source of inspiration for modern-day designers—proof that Shetland’s knitting heritage continues to influence the future. 

(Pictured at Ninian, owned by Joanna Hunter Coe.)

7. Masters of the Craft

Meeting Gudrun Johnston and Mary Jane Mucklestone at their book signing in Rhinebeck 2023 was a real highlight for me and the start of this incredible journey. Their designs, each bringing a unique take on Shetland and Fair Isle knitting, have influenced my own knitting path in a big way. Grand Shetland Adventure Knits is full of patterns that capture the essence of Shetland.  

One of my favorite projects from the book is the Cake Fridge Hat—the story behind it immediately caught my interest. The idea of a roadside cake fridge, where you can grab a slice of homemade cake as you pass by, is so charming and down-to-earth. After hearing about it, I knew I wanted to see it for myself!

8. The Island’s Rugged Beauty

My travels in Shetland took me along only a fraction of its 1,700 miles of coastline, yet each part was more beautiful than I could have imagined. The towering cliffs, rocky shores, and open moors are breathtaking and reveal something essential about life here. The ruggedness of the landscape speaks to the resilience of Shetland itself—its people are hard-working, humble, and creative, shaping their lives with the same strength and resourcefulness found in their craft. Experiencing Shetland’s landscapes firsthand helped me appreciate the deep connection between the island’s culture, its knitting tradition, and its endearing spirit.

BONUS: Haar Sauna, The Hot and Cold on St. Ninian’s Beach

While in Shetland, I visited the Haar Sauna on St. Ninian’s Beach. The water was around 50°F—shockingly cold! The shift between the sauna’s warmth and the cool sea air was a unique experience. I actually almost skipped it, but I’m so glad I didn’t—it turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the trip! It was a unique way to experience Shetland’s natural elements up close.

9. Shetland Sheep: The Heart of the Wool

Shetland wool wouldn’t be what it is without the hardy Shetland sheep, nor the dedicated farmers and their skilled sheepdogs who work together to care for them as they graze along the coast and across the moors. These animals, like those at The Shetland Rural Experience, are deeply connected to the landscape, thriving on a unique diet of seaweed and heather that adds something special to their fleece. 

10. A Pilgrimage for Every Knitter

Shetland Wool Week is more than an event—it’s a celebration of Shetland’s knitting tradition. Walking through landscapes that have inspired generations of knitters, meeting locals who carry on this art, and seeing the pride they have in their craft made the experience unforgettable. It’s a gathering of knitters from around the world, all connected by a shared love of wool. I was lucky enough to share this journey with friends, and I can’t wait to return.

These photos capture the warmth and camaraderie of Shetland Wool Week’s Welcome Night. From the Viking demonstration to the shared love of wool, sweaters, and designs, the spirit of Shetland was alive in every detail. And, of course, there was an undeniable bond among everyone wearing this year’s Wool Week hat, the Islesburgh Toorie by Anne Doull—a joyful symbol of community and a shared passion for the craft.

Exploring downtown Lerwick with colorful bunting flags dancing overhead – the perfect touch of charm for a Shetland adventure!

My friend Lotta Furmark and I, with our Peerie Shop Cardis from the "Grand Shetland Adventure Knits" book standing in front of the Peerie Shop it is named after!

The Doull Family at Shetland Wool Week's Welcome Night!

My friend Maria Stephenson and I, all smiles in front of the 'Welcome to Shetland' sign – feels like we’re right where we’re meant to be!

Here I am standing outside Jamieson's of Shetland, surrounded by Spindrift, DK, and gorgeous knitwear – wondering, how much of this can I bring home?!