Later, trade in such items became a central part of the Shetland economy and, during the long winter evenings, the characteristic sound in every croft house was that of the rattle of knitting needles.

Indeed, knitters would take their work with them if they went visiting neighbours, or to some community event. The exceptional quality of Shetland knitwear derives from the very fine wool
of the small Shetland sheep. Traditionally, the finest wool would be plucked - or rooed - from the sheep. It came away very easily and the process apparently caused no pain or injury to the animal.

The wool would be teased out (carded) ready for spinning. The spun wool would be extraordinarily light and fine, suitable for knitting into the cobweb-like shawls - capable of being drawn through a wedding ring - for which Shetland is renowned.

Natural dyes were used, based on materials such as lichen, madder, onionskin, seaweed or indigo. Until relatively recent times, the rewards for knitting or weaving were meagre and, under a truck, or barter, system, knitwear merchants would pay in goods of their choice rather than in cash.

Only during the last century did knitters begin to be paid more realistic rates as their work was recognised for its superb quality and began to be properly marketed around the world. Unfortunately though, the term `Shetland' is no guarantee that the wool came from Shetland or that the garment was knitted in the islands. Only those items bearing the `Real Shetland Knitwear' trademark are authentic local products.

Today, it's possible to buy a range of high quality knitwear that is not only fashionable but draws on the unique skills of Shetland producers handed down over generations. Other items, such as natural sheepskins and taatit rugs, are also available.