Talented craftspeople of all ages make a staggering range of handmade goods in Orkney putting new twists on some of the traditional skills.  Young business people are following in the footsteps of their ancestors and keeping the Orkney skills alive. For example, Orkney chairs with their straw woven hoods to keep out the drafts are so popular there is a waiting list to get one made by one of Orkney’s younger craftsmen.  Orkney’s heritage dating back to the art of the Neolithic people and Viking settlers is an inspiration for many craftspeople, along with the landscape and sea.

Just a fraction of the amazing crafts you can buy in Orkney include: jewellery, pottery, ceramics, tapestry, textiles, knitwear, sculpture, carved stone and wood, musical instruments, stained glass, home furnishings and furniture.  Materials used vary from the wool of local sheep to recycled items found on the beach.  Many, but not all, of the craft outlets and studios in Orkney are featured in Orkney Crafts Association’s Craft Trail.  There is a handy booklet with addresses, maps and details about all the members and their locations are signposted on the roads.

You can find many craft items in the independent shops that Orkney is famous for.  And you may find interesting wares at special exhibitions throughout the year.  Many of the artisans have websites for mail ordering goods and some travel to major craft fairs and exhibitions to show the rest of Britain the high quality of Orkney craftsmanship.