That the Parliament notes with regret the misrepresentation of Fair Isle knitting, which is a traditional knitting style using a colourwork technique that originated in Shetland in the late 19th century, in the first episode of the Channel 4 TV programme Game of Wool: Britain’s Best Knitter, which is produced by Glasgow-based Hello Halo (part of STV Studios); understands that the programme has reportedly faced criticism due to its use of incorrect terminology, including the misuse of the Shetland word "peerie" by describing small patterns as "peeries", rather than "peerie patterns", and blurring the distinctive Fair Isle with other types of colourwork; further understands there has been criticism of the setting of a challenge to produce a Fair Isle tank top using needles and yarn of the wrong sizing for Fair Isle knitting and in an unrealistic timeframe; understands that the decision by a contestant to "cut" his knitting, a practice which involves knitting in the round and then cutting holes for the arms and neck, was framed by the programme as a risky choice and a factor in the contestant’s failure to complete the challenge, despite this being a Fair Isle knitting technique and the contestant having previously spent time learning techniques in Shetland; notes that the programme used the phrase "the Shetlands" to describe the Shetland Islands, a term which is rejected by Shetlanders; expresses its extreme disappointment that despite the programme’s production team having been in contact with Shetland knitters to ask for advice before the programme aired, with one person answering questions and two sending videos, this was reportedly completely ignored; believes that this episode was a missed opportunity to accurately showcase the beloved tradition of Fair Isle knitting and the skill and creativity of the Shetland knitting community; highlights that there are knitting groups and organisations in Shetland working to teach the next generation of knitters the Fair Isle technique, with contemporary designers incorporating new colour palettes and styles as Fair Isle patterns continue to evolve, and recommends anyone with an interest in Fair Isle knitting to engage with the Shetland knitting community.
Supported by:
Paul Sweeney