Elizabeth Johnston / Shetland Islands

Elizabeth Johnson was the 2018 Shetland Wool Week patron. She’s famous for her handspun yarns and stunning Fair Isle and Shetland lace designs. With expert skills in spinning, dyeing, knitting, and weaving, she’s also passionate about researching these crafts.

At eight years old, Elizabeth started selling knitted mittens for extra cash. Later, in her teen years, she moved on to selling knitted yolks. By her 20s, knitting for money was behind her. Instead, she followed her one true love—spinning! For over 30 years, Elizabeth has taught workshops, sold handspun, hand-dyed yarns, and written patterns.

Furthermore, Elizabeth co-authored The Warp-Weighted Loom and is one of Shetland’s most celebrated handspinners. This beautiful book has been years in the making and covers traditional weaving techniques from Shetland, Norway, and Iceland. Elizabeth has a deep love for Shetland’s textile heritage and island beauty. Growing up there, she’s always been captivated by the Scottish charm.

Throughout her career, Elizabeth’s teaching has taken her all over the world. She’s even taught at the John C. Campbell Folk School!

As a keynote speaker, Elizabeth shares her story at Interweave events. She often talks about her childhood in Shetland’s artisan fibre communities. Alongside Hazel Tindall, Elizabeth also created the 50 Tips from Shetland Knitters video and co-authored a book on traditional weaving techniques from Shetland, Norway, and Iceland.