Shetland knitters have accused Channel 4's new knitting show, Game of Wool: Britain's Best Knitter, of cultural appropriation and demanded an apology for what they describe as numerous errors regarding the historic Fair Isle technique. The programme, hosted by former Olympian Tom Daley, aired on Sunday primetime and focused on Fair Isle knitting, but practitioners say it misrepresented the craft.
The Shetland Organisation for Knitters (SOK) highlighted several inaccuracies in a social media post, including the use of chunky yarn and 10mm needles instead of the traditional 2.5mm or 3mm, and the term 'peerie patterns', which is not used by Shetlanders. They also criticised the challenge to knit a Fair Isle tank top in 12 hours as 'just unrealistic'.
Elizabeth Johnston, a trustee of SOK, said the anger stems from decades of misuse of the term Fair Isle. 'The term is used for any kind of stranded knitting, but Fair Isle is a distinct set of patterns and unique knitting skills passed down through generations,' she said. Helen Barwick, who runs Shetland Stitch Club, added that knitting is a feminist issue, noting that Fair Isle was historically a way for Shetland women to earn income, now threatened by fast fashion.
In an open letter to Channel 4, Barwick emphasised that Fair Isle tradition is rooted in Shetland wool from native sheep, and the show's errors undermine this heritage. A Channel 4 spokeswoman responded that the show is an entertainment series and that they hold Fair Isle knitting in the highest regard, hoping it encourages more people to knit.
