04/16/2021
How could we not do a new Shetland Wool Week hat for 2021? 🐑🐑
We’re so happy to say that the long wait is over. Our SWW patron for a second year, Wilma Malcolmson, had the somewhat daunting task of coming up with another hat design, and here it is!
It’s called ‘Da Crofter’s Kep’ and it’s a beauty!
Featuring the traditional Fair Isle patterns that Wilma loves, she has cleverly designed five different versions using Shetland wool.
Wilma says:
“Tammy Fraser, my father, was a crofter who worked the land throughout his life. Although this involved long days, difficult times and many struggles, I know that he loved what he did and I remember the great pride he had in his achievements.
“So, just as ‘Katie’s Kep’ is a tribute to my mother and all the knitters like her, ‘Da Crofter’s Kep’ is my way of honouring the people who work the land here in Shetland. For generations, and in all weathers, their commitment to their land and livestock has ensured that families are provided for and this special way of life has not been lost. Without them there would be no Shetland sheep, no wool and no yarn … imagine that!”
For Wilma, choosing colours is her favourite part of the design process and she wanted to celebrate the wonderful yarns available in Shetland. There are so many colours available, from the natural colours of the sheep to those that are inspired by the gentle shades of the Shetland landscape. The result is five distinctive colourways. We think there’s something for everyone!
The suggested colourways use wool from:
Jamieson & Smith Shetland Wool Brokers
Jamiesons of Shetland
Uradale Yarns
Foula Wool
Shetland Handspun
Download the free pattern here
https://www.shetlandwoolweek.com/free-knitting-pattern/
Or click on our online shop to order an extended print version with colour placing tips from Wilma. Take a look at our brand new range of celebratory goodies too!
https://shop.shetlandwoolweek.com/
We hope you enjoy knitting the hat and share your with us using
Photo by Susan Molloy
