In this class we will look at the fundamentals of what makes up Shetland Lace, construction methods, stitch patterns and the wool itself. We will see how knitted lace items, from the intricate and delicate ring shawls to the everyday hap, have played a significant role in Shetland’s textile history.
Using examples from Gudrun and Mary Jane’s new book and other lace samples brought to class we will see how these traditional methods have been kept alive through modern interpretations.

Gudrun will provide a copy of her Hapkerchief pattern which we will start together in class using Shetland wool. This project will introduce knitters to one of the most basic Shetland lace patterns, Old Shell, and as a bonus there are lots of other fun techniques you will get to practice (W+T in the round, spit splicing, purled I-Cord Bind Off). 

(Suitable for beginner lace knitters)

Yarn:
(Yarn kits will be provided, so don't worry about bringing yarn!)

Jamieson’s of Shetland Spindrift.
4 balls in 4 different colors.

Needles:
US 7 / 4.5mm or US 8 / 5mm circular needle in 16, 20 or 24 inch length.
One extra circular in one size bigger than previous needle.
Note: The pattern calls for a US 8 / 5mm needle but if you are a loose knitter you may want to go down in size.

Notions:
2 different stitch markers (one can be a removable stitch marker), tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

This lively course introduces the basics of color selection for fair isle knitting. Learn about the use of color over the years in traditional Fair Isle knitting and move beyond!  Be inspired by the colorways in Mary Jane and Gudrun's new book Grand Shetland Adventure Knits, and the landscape we will inhabit in Santa Fe. Knitting a simple stranded wristlet with our choice of motifs from the book, will quickly illustrate new concepts. 

Yarn:

(Yarn kits will be provided, so don't worry about bringing yarn!)

Jamieson’s of Shetland Spindrift.
6 balls in 6 different colors.

 Needles:

Your preferred needle for working small-diameter pieces in the round, US3 [3.25mm] dps or long circular needle for magic loop. Stitch markers and tapestry needle. 

Homework:

With any color yarn you like, CO 48 sts. Place marker join to work in the round without twisting. Work k1, p1 rib for 1" (2.5 cm). 

Shetland is known worldwide for its exquisite lace knitting and distinctive Fair Isle colorwork knitting. Less known is how these arts are born out of a culture of thrift and economy, both in materials and time. In this lecture, Mary Jane and Gudrun take you for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of their new book and share some commonalities between these two knitting disciplines and enthuse on the subject of Shetland in general.

For 10 years, the duo led groups of avid knitters to the islands on Grand Shetland Adventures, their signature, once-in-a-lifetime trips, and now, you're invited too! They'll introduce you to their favorite places in the isles, highlighting yarn producers, textile makers, crofters, and favorite walks in the wild outdoors. Come along for the journey!