In this episode I am talking to Fiona Nadyer, a skilled knitter who is the main knitting demonstrator for Sanquhar Gloves for the Sanquhar Knitting Tours, offered through the A’the Airts Centre.
The town of Sanquhar is nestled in the River Nith Valley of Dumfries and Galloway, now home to Fiona, who is originally from the Kingdom of Fife.
Fiona takes us right into the centuries-old tradition of Sanquhar knitting, dating back to the 16th & 17th centuries. She explains how this unique two-colour knitting pattern evolved around the 18th century as a distinctive selling point for local craftspeople during the Industrial Revolution in Scotland.
The craft features 16 recognised patterns, with the most famous being “The Duke”, named after the Duke of Buccleuch who championed these gloves for their exceptional quality and durability.
Several years back, I visited Sanquhar with my son and we also spent time at the Old Toll Both now a museum. Here are a view pictures I took at the time:
Toll Booth, Sanquhar
Sampler on display at the museum as well as a stitched chronicle of the town, showing all recognised patterns. (All pictures are author’s own).
Sanquhar Post Office (World Oldest!!)
As you can see, Sanquhar isn’t just about knitting! This tiny town really packs a punch and here is why:
* World’s oldest post office (dating from 1712!)
* Castle dating back to the Scottish Wars of Independence (1100s!)
* Iron Age remains in the area
* Robbie Burns used to visit regularly
* Stunning southwest Scotland countryside
* Just 25 miles from Dumfries and Kilmarnock
And there is so much more…. This episode beautifully captures not just the technical aspects of a traditional craft, but the warmth and community spirit that keeps it alive in modern Scotland.
So, sit back and have a listen for yourself. If you would like to find out more about A’the Airts Centre, visit their website here: https://www.atheairts.org.uk
There is also a dedicated website to the Sanquhar Pattern Designs, which you can find here: https://www.sanquharknits.com
As always, thank you for listening to the podcast.
I would love to know what you’re taking away from this episode.
If you are a crafter in Scotland and would like to be a guest on this podcast, then please complete this short form - https://form.typeform.com/to/kUUWIPfR
To stay in touch and find out about upcoming guests then visit me over on Instagram and follow along - https://www.instagram.com/devinetoursofscotland/
In case this inspires you not only to be more creative but also plan a creative holiday in Scotland and would like to find out more about craft days out or tours, then use the contact form via my website to get in touch:
https://devinetoursofscotland.co.uk
