I'm starting to plan a trip to Scotland next year and want to find the best sources for knitting wool and cashmere. We're going just about everywhere, including Shetland and Orkney Islands, even a two day stay at the bird observatory on Fair Isle.
It's not necessarily easy, but it might be easier now than last year, and who knows about next year. A new yarn shop just opened a month or so ago in Glasgow and I hear that it's very nice indeed.
and Smith90 North Road, Lerwick, Shetland Islands, U.K(Not to be confused with other companies of a similar name)I tried hard, but could not find a website for the "other" Jamieson & Smith,without being directed to the above site.
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's a list of stores:
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suggest contacting them by email to be sure they're still in businessenjoy! Shelagh
Hi Caroline.....a lady I know in another group lives in Scotland and Knits so I just posted a request for her assistance.....not sure of the time zone but think they are ahead about 8 hours. I will pass on her sources for you when she replies.
Somebody else suggested J&S - their mill and mill store are in the Shetlands - call ahead to be sure it's open, and take several barf bags for the ferry (unless you're well-heeled and plane over!).
lol - we decided a long time ago we'd take the plane. It has all to do about my stomach not my heels. The thought of a four hour ferry ride on the North Sea makes me nauseous.
Hi Donna, do you know that you have completely stumped me on this one!
I've searched for ages and it seems that you can order cashmere yarn/wool for knitting from the web, but I can't find any shops to visit in Scotland where you could go to buy it. All they offer are ready made garments (at astronomical prices, I might add).
The best ones to order cashmere wool from on the web seem to be:
I hope she has a wonderful trip - the islands are very beautiful BUT if she is coming any time other than midwinter please warn her to bring plenty of "anti-bite" cream. Scotland, and particularly the islands, are renowned for their midges. Midges are foul little beasts similar to mosquitoes and you can be left with golf-ball sized lumps if they take a liking to your particular flavour! If she runs out of cream then the best one to buy over here is called Anthisan, an anti-histamine cream you can get from any pharmacy. And I know (from bitter experience) that it works!!!! :-)
Sorry I couldn't be more helpful but if I manage to gather any more info. I'll let you know.
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