Shetland wool is a natural and sustainable resource. Known for its softness and durability, Shetland yarns are often woollen spun resulting in lightweight, warm garments. Shetland yarn when knitted yields fabric that “blooms” after it's been washed and blocked and garments made with these yarns get better and better with age. Shetland wool is frequently used for colorwork such as traditional Fairisle knitting or stranded knitting and/or lace designs.
What are Shetland Sheep?
Shetland sheep are a small primitive breed that are particularly suited to living on the remote islands in the North Sea north of Scotland and west of Scandinavia. The sheep’s diet consists of salt-misted grass, heather, and sometimes seaweed. Their wool comes in several colors and fleece patterns which result in beautiful naturally colored yarns. Their wool also takes dyes very well and so Shetland yarn offerings come in a wide range of colors.
Color and Shetland Wool
Shetland wool comes in one of the widest ranges of natural colors. An example of this can be seen in Jamieson & Smith's Supreme Jumper Weight Collection which is available in 9 beautiful and natural shades, just as you might see the Shetland sheep dotting the islands with their color variety. Shetland wool is also a lovely base for dyeing, therefore it is available in every shade imaginable which can be a colorwork or Fairisle knitter's dream.
Shetland Wool Yarns
The Woolly Thistle is pleased to offer several yarns made from Shetland wool (or Shetland wool blended with other breeds!) Our most prolific producer of Shetland yarn is Jamieson & Smith proudly located in Shetland. This family business has been buying wool since the 1930s and they now process a large majority of the Shetland Islands Wool Clip.
Garthenor Organics, who are located in Wales, make a variety of yarns including a Shetland yarn available in several yarn weights and all in natural colors.
Uradale Yarns are raising native Shetland sheep on their Shetland farm. Never bleached, Uradale yarns are organically raised, spun and dyed. We're proud to be their exclusive US retailer.
Continue your Shetland Wool journey
Whether you are new to Shetland Wool or already an enthusiast, there's always more to learn and more to knit! The Shetland Wool Week Annual is a wonderful yearly publication with designs from well-known designers, articles about Shetland, and lots of pattern inspiration! Ready to get knitting? Try out one of our kits with Shetland Wool.
