News / SWRI warn knitting’s future will unravel
SHETLAND Islands Council’s decision to stop teaching primary children the skill of knitting has come under fire from the bastion of tradition, the Scottish Women’s Rural Institute.
Last week the SIC’s services committee voted to save £130,000 by axing knitting classes, as the local authority struggles to save £1.2 million on its education budget.
The move has caused widespread unease with warnings that the future of Shetland’s world famous tradition of Fair Isle knitwear is under threat.
Now the national representatives of the SWRI, in the form of chairman Marion Davidson, have waded into the debate, saying the council’s decision was “extremely disappointing”.
“Hand knitting has been making a comeback in recent years, people of all ages have been adopting a make do and mend attitude during the recession, wanting to make their own clothes and fashion accessories,” Mrs Davidson said.
“The only way that traditional skills can remain alive is by passing it to young people. Taking this out of schools in Shetland puts knitting at risk of dying out and could lead to its thriving textile industry being in jeopardy.
“Knitting is a strong part of Shetland Island heritage. Who has not heard of Shetland knitting?
“At a time when knitting has made a huge comeback it would be sad to see knitting stop in schools. SWRI has always encouraged members to knit and sew and to use it as a break to clear their minds.
“Passing on skills such as knitting and weaving to young people is the only way that it can continue to thrive.
“Often knitting is seen as an older person’s hobby but times have changed. Even celebrities such as Julia Roberts and Madonna have admitted to knitting in their spare time.
“Knitting is fashionable again and a new generation is interested because the patterns are more up to date. However, if these plans go ahead in Shetland the younger generation will miss out.”
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