Another busy wool week expected

AROUND 700 people from across the globe are expected to take part in this year’s Shetland Wool Week.

Full details of the event’s programme will be released at 10am on Saturday when tickets go on sale.

Wool Week, which is a Shetland Amenity Trust initiative, will take place between 22-30 September and organisers say there are over 300 classes scheduled.

Coordinator Victoria Tait said there are a host of local tutors signed up, including Donna Smith, Janette Budge, Elizabeth Johnston, Hazel Tindall and Terri Malcolmson.

“As always, there is also a small number of visiting tutors including internationally renowned Beth Brown-Reinsel who is running classes in traditional ganseys, traditional cast ons, and cowichan-inspired pullovers,” she added.

“We’ll also be hosting Anna Vasko, a textile designer and teacher from Finland who specialises in ethically produced natural dyes.”

Tait added that the team have “worked with the local textiles community throughout the year to put together a really diverse programme full of old favourites as well as plenty of new events too”.

“In addition to an extensive range of classes in knitting, Fair Isle and lace there is more choice this year in terms of spinning, weaving and dye workshops,” she continued.

“Crofting visits and tours continue to be popular and the programme includes guided tours to Whalsay, Unst, Bressay, South and North Mainland. The community halls have really embraced Wool Week and are holding an extensive range of textile demonstrations, exhibitions and teas.

“There are more evening events, too, with talks, book launches, and drop-ins as well as two new events at the Peerie Shop and Mareel with a focus on local food and traditional Shetland music.

“It’s a packed programme, and we’d encourage people to consider setting some time aside in their diaries to join in and take the opportunity to perhaps learn something new and meet with many other like-minded folk from all over the world.”

Shetland Wool Week organisers previously announced that Elizabeth Johnston will be this year’s patron.