How did R.A.M first become involved in creating knitted items for Up Helly Aa suits?
R.A.M’s connection with Up Helly Aa grew naturally during my time working at Shetland College (now Shetland UHI), where I worked from 2014 until 2022. When I had started, Eric Stewart, Textile Technician at the college, had recently undertaken the mammoth task of knitting to size the kirtles for each member of Lerwick Jarl Squad 2014, over 50 men!!! So when I joined the team, he had swore he would never take on any UHA work again but luckily I convinced him to do smaller projects and I would take the lead.
One small project led to another, word spread, and before long knitting for the festival became a regular part of the year for us. It very much snowballed, in the best possible way and one year I worked on 6 out of the 12 UHA’s!
Following the closure of the Textile Facilitation Unit at the college, we were pleased to take on a number of existing customers and future UHA projects, helping to ensure the custom manufacturing service be available locally.
What does it mean to you as a Shetland business to contribute to such an iconic event?
It means a huge amount, Up Helly Aa is such a powerful expression of Shetland identity and knitting is just as deeply rooted in everyday life here too. Being able to bring those two traditions together feels really special. It’s a chance to help keep heritage and traditions alive, but in a way that still feels current, evolving and relevant rather than just rehashing old ideas, squads are looking for more efficient means of manufacturing components for their outfits.
What specific items do you knit for the Up Helly Aa suits?
Over the years the list has grown longer and longer! We knit custom trim in a range of sizes, banners, cloaks, dresses, kirtles and hooded ponchos, as well as leg/wrist bands and helmet liners.
We also design custom scarves, snoods and headbands for the squads family and friends, which are a wonderful keepsake. Every squad is different, so no two projects are ever the same but each one is a privilege to be a part of.
How early in the year do you usually start work on items for Up Helly Aa?
It really depends on which festival it is, Lerwick Up Helly Aa we would usually start at least a year in advance, while country festivals tend to be around 6/7 months. That might sound early but once designs are agreed and knitting begins, the time disappears very quickly. Up Helly Aa definitely rewards good planning and strong hands!
Roughly how long does it take to complete knitted pieces for a suit?
Again, it varies a lot. Smaller elements like trim usually take two to three weeks (designing and prototyping, then production), while full garments can take three to four months from start to finish.
Because everything is bespoke and designed to fit a specific suit element or theme, it’s a slow, thoughtful process rather than something that can be rushed.
Consultations are had to discuss design, yarn and colours, then prototypes are made to ensure the jarl is happy with the items, then production of the final pieces commences, construction, linking and finishing, then the washing and ironing!
Up Helly Aa images are shared around the world. How does it feel knowing your work is seen internationally?
It’s completely unreal to be honest. There’s often a long delay between finishing the knitting and seeing it appear in photographs or films from the night, and then suddenly it’s everywhere. Knowing something made quietly in Shetland by my hands ends up being seen across the world is incredibly humbling, and still a bit surreal every time.
What is it like working with the squads and committees involved in Up Helly Aa?
No two projects are ever alike. Each squad has its own ideas, themes and way of working, which keeps things interesting and creative. It’s a real collaborative process and it’s always exciting to see how knitted elements become part of a much bigger visual story on the night.
It’s really special to spot pieces we made years ago still in use at Up Helly Aa events today, keeping marshals warm while the celebrations unfold. A small but meaningful sign of the longevity and care knitted into each piece.
How far in advance would you recommend UHA groups get in touch?
As early as possible please. Ideally no later than four to five months before the event, and earlier if full garments are involved. The more time there is to plan and prototype, the better the end result tends to be for everyone.
Why is it important for Up Helly Aa squads to work with local Shetland businesses where possible?
Local businesses understand the festival, the pressures and the level of detail and secrecy involved. There’s also a shared pride in contributing to something so important to the community. Working locally means bespoke, skilled work, clearer communication and supporting the wider creative network here in Shetland that helps make Up Helly Aa what it is.
Where can squads or organisers find out more about your work or get in touch?
They can get in touch at any point by emailing us on: [email protected].
You can also see more of our UHA contributions by browsing past projects on our Instagram / Facebook page or clicking here
Check R.A.M out online
