I was delighted to visit Skerries again. A beautiful day on a beautiful island! Skerries is made up of 3 islands with the 2 inhabited ones being joined by a bridge. 

We gathered in the lovely ferry waiting room.

The amazing thing for me is that these workshops were attended by exceptionally skilled fair isle and lace knitters - whose speed, experience and skill are eye watering. I have to shelf my inferiority complex and share my new technique. Needless to say they all picked it up quickly! I've been banging on about the importance of recording some of the older knitters for years and years. The difficulty is that the richest content comes through discussion in small groups as one person's experience feeds off another's and a new perspective is revealed but the practice of interviewing tends to be with individuals. 

 During a discussion this day about 'kemping' which in Shetland means competing either with another person or, more commonly, the clock! As knitting was poorly paid, speed in knitting was crucial. Knitwear was gathered from throughout Shetland to export either to the UK or abroad through various merchants. We were discussing occasions when folk were literally running to catch the ferry while still earning in their ends when one lady said "mind dat it wis Da Earl that I was kempin wi!"

'The Earl of Zetland' a cargo and passenger ship that served the isles before the days of roro car ferries. The ship holds fond memories for older Shetlanders and was the connecting vehicle between island residents. I think her service ended in 1971!

This is the modern version of the Earl, each island now has its own ferry service, all allow cars to drive on and off (roro) with the exception of Foula and Fair Isle where a crane is needed to allow vehicle passage. I was vexed to leave Skerries but hope to return soon.

"Brilliant weekend. Learned a new skill and had a lovely sociable time. Good fun and friendly banter."

"Enjoyed the weekend and learning a new skill. Also enjoyed meeting up with everyone for a yarn and a fun."

"Great to try something new and come home to Skerries for it. Lovely to catch up with everyone. Thanks Helen for another super crafty weekend."

"The weekend has been very interesting. Its been very informative and a lightsome weekend good learning something new."

I am very grateful to my hosts, Marina, Douglas and family for their warm hospitality.