Jamieson & Smith

About Jamieson & Smith

Jamieson & Smith have been part of Shetland's wool story since the 1930s, when the Smith family of Berry Farm in Scalloway began buying fleeces from local crofters. The business became incorporated in 1951, and in the 1960s moved to its current home overlooking Lerwick harbour. The cluster of buildings on the North Road, including the wool sheds and renovated church (now the yarn shop), remains at the heart of their work.

In 2004, following the retirement of the Smith family, Jamieson & Smith joined with Curtis Wool Direct in Yorkshire. Today, the company is still staffed by Shetlanders, operating as a standalone business where the profits from Real Shetland Wool come straight back into the islands and to the people who make it all possible – the crofters and farmers.

Shetland Wool Brokers

As Shetland Wool Brokers, Jamieson & Smith purchase fleeces from over 700 crofters and farmers across the islands, transforming them into high-quality yarns, knitwear, blankets, and carpets. They handle over 80% of Shetland's annual wool clip – a responsibility they take seriously.

Jamieson & Smith remain one of the few wool brokers who still hand sort and grade every fleece that passes through their doors. Every product carries the Three Sheep Logo, your assurance that it is made from 100% Real Shetland Wool from sheep born and bred on the islands.

Shetland Wool – Something Special

Shetland wool is a natural and sustainable fibre shaped by the islands' wild landscape. The sheep graze heather covered hills and seaweed strewn shores, producing a fleece known for its fineness, warmth, and surprising strength. It is a fibre deeply linked to Shetland's knitting heritage, perfectly suited to both lace and colourwork, and valued worldwide.

The Yarns

Jamieson & Smith have produced yarn since the 1960s. All their yarns are commission spun to their requirements on the UK mainland. They offer an extensive range from 1-ply lace weight up to Aran weight, with their 2-ply jumper weight available in over 200 shades being the gold standard for Fair Isle knitting.

Shetland Wool Week

In 2010, Jamieson & Smith founded Shetland Wool Week, which has grown into a hugely popular annual event and a well-known celebration of Shetland wool and textiles.

Why We Stock Jamieson & Smith

We're proud to be one of over 100 shops worldwide carrying Jamieson & Smith yarns. Their commitment to authentic Shetland wool, their support of local crofters, and their dedication to traditional techniques align perfectly with our values. The incredible colour palette and exceptional quality make these yarns unmatched for Fair Isle, lace, and traditional Shetland knitting.

Whether you're knitting a classic Fair Isle yoke jumper, a delicate Shetland lace shawl, or exploring traditional stranded colourwork, Jamieson & Smith yarns bring the heritage and beauty of the Shetland Islands to your needles.