The Shetland Isles are world re-known for their knitting traditions and their stitchers tout a speed averaging 200 stitches per minute! With a lifestyle and economy so firmly tied to wool and it's crafts, the ability to knit with speed, ease, and comfort is of the utmost importance. That's where the Shetland makkin (Shetland dialect for knitting) belt comes in! Knitting with this belt offers ergonomic stability that eases hand fatigue, keeps your tension even, speeds up your stitching, and allows you to knit while on the go.

Knitting can be done both flat and in the round but long double pointed needles are a must, as well as English flicking style. No worries though if you are a Continental knitter as flicking with the right hand will be worked on in the class. Together we will cover step by step how to incorporate the belt into your knitting practice. We will start with the use of two needles for flat knitting and then progress to knitting in the round using three or four needles. We will also touch on some history and culture. 

For me personally, the makkin belt made all the difference in my ability to knit. I spent years abandoning partially and poorly done attempts at knitting. Tried straight needles and circular needles, Continental, and English but it wasn't until I discovered the knitting belt that I was finally able to complete a garment while staying free of aches and pains and with a tension I could be proud of.

$165 

Materials: The fee includes your own belt and a set of double pointed needles in the required length. The belts are handmade by me using recycled leather, vintage notions, and are stuffed with horsehair sourced locally and ethically. Students should bring a fingering or sport weight yarn. Yarn is also available to purchase in the shop.

Student requirements: Beginner friendly but students must have at least some basic knitting skills such as a preferred cast on method and be comfortable with stockinette. 

Thursday, April 2, 2026, Noon - 3