There’s something quietly magical about the Orkney Islands. Perched off the northeastern tip of Scotland, these windswept isles are steeped in history, folklore, and a deep-rooted tradition of craftsmanship that weaves its way through everyday life. For generations, Orcadians have crafted with purpose - shaped by the land, the sea, and a strong sense of community.
A Brief History of Craft on Orkney
From Neolithic carvings in stone to Viking-inspired jewellery and woollen textiles, Orkney’s creative heritage is as rich and varied as its landscapes. With limited natural resources and a hardy island lifestyle, early crafts evolved out of necessity - making do with what was available, and making it beautifully.
Over the centuries, this spirit of resourceful creativity has flourished. Today, Orkney is known not only for its archaeology and wildlife but also for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. Local makers continue to produce exceptional work in pottery, weaving, woodworking, textiles, jewellery and more - each piece rooted in island life and tradition.
The Orkney Chair: A Symbol of Craftsmanship and Comfort
One of the most iconic symbols of Orkney’s craft legacy is the Orkney Chair. These distinctive high-backed chairs, traditionally made from driftwood and woven oat straw, were designed to offer shelter and warmth in draughty stone cottages. With their wraparound straw hoods, they provided both physical comfort and a sense of privacy - a simple yet ingenious design born out of island living.
I’ve been visiting Orkney every year for several years now, and each time I’m struck by the sense of pride and tradition that surrounds this humble yet beautiful piece of furniture. A few years ago, I became the proud owner of my very own Orkney Chair, lovingly made by the skilled hands of Jackie at Scapa Crafts. Take a look at the wonderful pieces of furniture made by Jackie and his master joiners here.
Sitting in my Orkney chair feels like being wrapped in the essence of the islands - timeless, grounded, and utterly calming.
Celebrating Local Makers: Judith Glue’s Shop in Kirkwall
One of my favourite places to visit in Kirkwall is Judith Glue’s shop - a treasure trove of locally made crafts, knitwear, gifts, and homeware, all celebrating the creative heart of Orkney. Judith has long championed local makers and small creative businesses, providing a platform for their work and sharing their stories with visitors from around the world.
So, I was absolutely thrilled to recently hand-deliver a special order of our Mini Matchbox Cross Stitch Kits to the shop. While I may not be an islander myself, I feel incredibly honoured that our kits are now part of Judith’s thoughtfully curated collection. Visit Judith’s website here.
It’s always a joy to see handmade creations valued and celebrated - and Orkney, with its enduring love of craft, is one of the best places in the world for that.