Faroe Islands

Destination Overview

The beautiful Faroe Islands have a profound and enduring textile heritage that mirrors their rugged, natural landscapes. The islands possess a strong affinity with knitting and wool work, having managed to preserve their textile heritage despite modern influences – making it the perfect destination for your next crafting discovery.  

At one stage in the islands’ rich history, woollen products were the most traded goods, illustrating just how important craft culture is to this fascinating part of the world. Traditionally, the men of the islands carded and spun the wool whilst the women knitted, generating in excess of 100,000 pairs of knitted socks each year by the middle of the 18th century. By the 19th century, the same number of jumpers were also being produced to the equivalent inimitable standard.  

Key highlights when exploring the Faroe Islands include the capital of Torshavn, Kirkjubøur which is the islands' most significant historical site, and Vestmanna, which is home to thousands of seabirds including puffins, fulmars and guillemots – all of which offer insight into the unique and diverse culture of the Faroese and will inspire your projects. On selected holidays you’ll be accompanied by renowned local textile designers and, using traditional techniques, your creation will be an ode to the timeless tradition of this magnificent archipelago.