Shetland Arts & Crafts Association are proud to announce the launch of Shetland’s first ever Craft Trail. Around forty craftspeople, artists and related shops and outlets are participating in opening their workshops or studios –to visitors. Some studios are purpose built and professional; sometimes the studio is just a corner of a house – visitors can buy direct from the craftmakers, designers and artists or commission a special gift.
Planning for the Shetland Arts & Crafts Association Trail started in 2009, when ten Association members visited Orkney with Shetland Arts to attend a Makers Day at the Pier Arts Centre and investigate the well established Orkney Craft Trail. They found that, with adjustments to make it more inclusive, and less costly to implement, there was nothing that couldn’t work in Shetland.
The Shetland trail itself is explained in a high quality leaflet, with a map and details of all the participants. Each member also has distinctive signs for their premises. The leaflet is widely distributed, and is also available as a PDF download on the Shetland Arts & Crafts Association website at www.shetlandartsandcrafts.co.uk
The current strength of the art and craft sector is reflected in the number and variety of participants.
Wendy Inkster, secretary of the Association said:
“We have members from Fair Isle to Unst, from Sandness to Whalsay, with crafts ranging from to traditional knitwear to innovative designs in textiles, wood, glass and pottery; as well as some truly original artwork.”
“Many Shetland crafts can only be seen at events like the Clickimin Craft Fair which we also organise, so this is a great opportunity for creative practitioners and manufacturers to sell to visitors and Shetlanders alike, and an opportunity for the public to buy genuine Shetland products throughout the year.”
“A strong and growing industry has been hidden away from view for too long”.
Despite the title ‘Craft Trail’, there is no set route to follow – concentrate on one geographical area, if you like, or on one type of work (knitwear or art, maybe) or just wander at random. The Craft Trail is the perfect excuse to “go for a run”. Wherever you go you’ll discover great variety and interest – in fact there are only two certainties; quality products, and a warm welcome.
All Studios and Workshops are open during the hours printed individually in the Map or by appointment on certain days.
The Shetland Craft Trail leaflet can be downloaded here.
