In this episode I chat with Helen about some of the traditional crafts she’s involved with, how she became involved in them, and what draws her to them. We talk about keeping sheep, natural dyes, fair isle knitting, burning peat, willow basketry, the fleece rugs she makes, and so much more! Like many of us she is a dabbler in many traditional crafts, with a passion for learning about heritage crafts– in particular those from the Viking era.
Oh yes, and I also spend way too much time asking about the Shetland Islands. . . =) I didn’t know much about them and Helen was gracious enough to indulge my curiosity! Fortunately she has a passion for learning and understanding the local culture as well as sharing what makes it special.
Resources
@hart_of_shetland — Helen’s instagram page, go take a look at the rugs she’s making!
hartofshetland.co.uk — Helen’s website
If you’re interested in learning more about the Fire Festival (Up Helly Aa) or the Shetlands in general I’d suggest taking a look at www.shetland.org
Thank you for interviewing Helen, I am one of her ‘down south’ friends and it is a joy to hear her talk and shrinks the miles now between us. I love keeping up with the life she now lives and her daily trials and tribulations, she is now pretty much living a long-held dream.
It was completely my pleasure! I’m right there with you, I really enjoy following along and seeing what she is up to. Love the way she has embraced the heritage of the shetlands and presents what she is up to!