A knitting belt, also known as a makkin belt in Shetland, is a tool worn around the waist, traditionally made out of leather and stuffed with horsehair. The belt features holes to anchor your knitting needle, making it easier for you to knit with double-pointed or long straight needles. The different holes are often used to comfortably fit different needle sizes, depending on the length. According to expert Hazel Tindal. “The needle shouldn’t have room to wiggle about!”
In short: it helps you knit faster, longer, and more comfortably (especially if you’re speed-knitting on a windy Shetland hillside, as many historically did!).
A knitting belt is traditionally worn at the right side of the waist, but can also be positioned lower on your hip.
This way, your left hand should do most of the work and your wrists should hardly move at all.
Pro tip: When using a knitting belt, metal needles are better for withstanding the pressure as you work.
Knitting belts have been used for centuries in the Shetland Islands, where knitting wasn’t just a hobby—it was a livelihood. Locals would knit garments like ganseys with intricate stitch patterns, designed to be durable, warm, and even identifiable to local families.
The knitting belt helped islanders to knit while standing, walking, or even herding sheep!
Knitting belts aren’t just relics of the past—they’re incredibly useful tools that many knitters still love today. Whether you’re interested in speed knitting, practicality, or just connecting with old traditions, the knitting belt is perfect for you!
Plus, trying one out is just plain fun!
You’re in luck! On our 9-Night Shetland and Scotland Knitting Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to use a knitting belt during one of our incredible workshops.
You’ll get hands-on time with this amazing knitting tool – just like generations of Shetland knitters before you!
