Up Helly Aa makes up a large part of Shetland’s social calendar and keeps us all entertained through the dark winter months. With the events starting in January and running until mid March, we certainly know how to celebrate our Viking heritage.
We would like to give a special mention to the outfits worn by the Jarl Squad at the main Lerwick Up Helly Aa 2024 event. Each year the design and colour of the suits are a closely guarded secret until the day – we always look forward to seeing whether they incorporate any Shetland knitwear……and this year did not disappoint!
All photos by @martin_johnturner
The beautiful blue squad cloaks were designed and made by Shetland Woollen Co. They also made the headbands and snoods for family and friends of squad members (which we absolutely love!!)
They designed and made all 68 mens, lasses and boys cloaks in Hoswick, Sandwick. This included designing, programming, sampling, knitting, linking, seaming, tacking, checking, washing, sewing and button holing. We think they look amazing!
Another incredible woman is the Jarl’s mam Sandra. She made all the kirtles herself, each one custom made which is an amazing feat for one person! She worked closely with Shetland Woollen Co to make sure they got the best fit for the squad – what a great team.
