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Madonna Knitting, by Bertram of Minden 1400-1410 |
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Originally the sweaters were knitted using unscoured wool that retained its natural oils (lanolin) which made the garments water-resistant and meant they remained wearable even when wet. It was primarily the wives of island fishermen who knitted the sweaters. |
Some stitch patterns have a traditional interpretation, often of religious significance. The honeycomb is a symbol of the hard-working bee. |
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| Honey comb pattern sweater |
Diamond pattern sweater |
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The cable, an integral part of the fisherman's daily life, is said to be a wish for safety and good luck when fishing. The diamond is a wish of success, wealth and treasure.
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The basket stitch represents the fisherman's basket, a hope for a plentiful catch. |
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| Basket weave pattern |
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