LEATHER
Leather working has ancient roots, too, and has long been used for such
things as shoes, straps, bags or harness for Shetland ponies.
One of the
most characteristic products is the knitter's belt, but many other items are
produced by local craftspeople.
WORKING IN METAL
The blacksmith's skills have always been essential to the Shetland
community, whether employed in making agricultural equipment such as ploughs
or ensuring that horses and ponies were well shod. Today, the blacksmith is
increasingly called upon to undertake decorative work, such as a ceremonial
broadsword or ornamental knife.
Cast iron railings are a notable feature of several streets in Lerwick.
Shetland crafts people also work, in gold, silver and other precious metals,
producing delicate jewellery of all kinds. Often, they choose, symbols from
the Islands' Pictish, Celtic and Norse heritage.
