The crafting of these shawls continues a Shetland tradition that goes back at least two hundred years. Originally knitted as christening shawls and passed down through the generations, today their uses are more varied. The majority are still used as christening shawls but they also serve as extremely elegant evening wear or as baby shawls.

These fine pieces are all hand knitted from 100% pure new Shetland wool purchased direct from Messrs. Jamieson & Smith (Wool Brokers) Ltd. of Lerwick, who have also supplied Gema Ord's beautiful patterns. The shawls are knitted on circular needles except the very central parts when 5 needles with points at both ends are used.

The two ply shawls are suitable as christening shawls or as baby shawls, or can be worn around the shoulders. The finer and much prized cobweb lace shawls are known as the 'wedding ring shawls'. When finished, they could be pulled through a wedding ring, but Elspeth advises that great care must be taken as there is a special way to do it!. These are the shawls that were also used as wedding veils, and then handed down as christening shawls.

The completed shawl is washed and pinned to shape and when dry measures approximately 50 inches by 50 inches.

The Shawls are knitted in white, or very pale creamy white.