Knitch Magazine

Yarn Name: Sirritogi
Review Date: August 27, 2010
Date Introduced to Market:

The Look

Here’s a challenge for your Facebook friends: ask how many (without Googling) Faroe Islands there are and to name something about them. You’ll quickly sort out the knitters from the geographically challenged. Don’t be surprised to get a long love note from the serious knitters who may gush about the beauties of traditional Faroese lace shawls knit of traditional wool yarn. Some of your adventurous friends may have visited or at least considered a knitting cruise to these remote islands in the North Atlantic. Located northwest of Scotland and halfway between Iceland and Norway, this archipelago is a group of 18 small volcanic islands, with high cliffs that rise almost vertically from the sea, leaving miles of rocky shoreline. It is said that no point in the Faroe Islands is more than 3 miles (5K) from the coast. These remote and rugged islands were first discovered by Irish monks in the 7^th Century who brought sheep with them. Vikings brought the Old Norse language on which Faorese is based. These ancient influences are still evident in the culture, language and economy of the Faroe Islands which are now part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Learn more at www.faroeislands.com.

Shaped by the sea, the economy is based on fishing. Wool products are a close second. Knitters know of the Faroe Islands for seaman scarves and Faroese lace shawls knit of natural wool from the shaggy sheep that survive on the poor soil of the high windy mountains. These sheep have been bred in five natural colors for more than 700 years. Because of the scarcity of arable land on their islands, the Faroese people have always been aware of the importance of sustainable farming. Modern legislation that regulates the number of sheep grazing in the fields is based on the "seyoabraevio", The Sheep Letter", enacted in 1298!

The Feel

Sirritogi is currently available in fingering, DK/sport, light worsted and worsted weights. This traditional plied yarn is lightly processed so it retains much of the natural lanolin, giving it a natural sheepy scent. For many knitters, this smell is intoxicating; others may find it too “rural”. Sheep in this rugged climate grow a rugged coat with a wiry texture that may feel coarse to knitters who are used to commercially processed yarns. While Sirritogi rates a 5 on the softness scale, once you give your kitting a bath, you will see it transformed into a soft, light fiber with almost no scent at all.

Softness Scale

The Patterns

A few patterns are available on the nascent website for 62 Degrees North; check out these suggestions to get an idea of how to use this authentic traditional yarn. Alternatively, you can explore one of the books about Faroese lace, including Stahman’s Shawls and Scarves by Myrna Stahman’s or Marilyn van Keppel’s translation of Faroese Knitting Patterns, a collection of knitted shawls. Refer to one of the many designers who use traditional wools or any of the Aran style designs. Remember, these are traditional woolen yarns that you can use to knit hats, scarves, sweaters, coats; in a word, almost anything from fine lace to a warm coat.

Color Range

Working It

Lanolin rich yarns soften your hands as you work with them – really. The coarse fibers create firmly etched stitches that can be used to good effect in knit purl combinations, lace stitches, or even plain stockinette. The slightly hairy fibers interlock, making it ideal for color pattern knitting. You can knit beautiful tone on tone patterns using the 5 natural sheep shades and you’ll never have to worry about the color bleeding or fading.

What I’d Like to Make with It

Sirritogi is lightweight and warm, an ideal yarn for a vest or shrug to ward off winter chill. Try a sampler vest or choose a style that utilizes textured stitches. Sirritogi will display your work beautifully and keep you warm, too. The neutral colors will go well with any wardrobe and can be worn in any season. If you live in a warmer climate, choose one of the lighter weight yarns.

Knitting Outside the Box

For lightweight warmth, eye popping beauty and pleasant knitting, knit a Faroese shawl. The knitting will never bore you and you’ll have a gorgeous, timeless shawl to show off or give to a special person when you finish.

Blocking It

Lay flat to dry.

Washing It

Gently hand wash in cool water using a mild soap.

Wearability

Properly cared for, woolen hand knits may last decades, not just a few seasons. This yarn is spun from the wool of sheep so hardy they can thrive in the harshest of climates. Your knitting should be able to withstand rugged wear and frequent use, even handed down to younger siblings or next generations.

Overall Recommendation:

Absolutely nothing can compare to knitting with natural wool – Sirritogi rates #10 in my opinion. I realize many who are scent sensitive and allergen-prone will remain skeptical, but try this timeless and traditional wool at least once. Knit a hat or a pair of mittens and experience knitting at its ancient roots.