Shetland knitwear, but not as you know it.
The Shetland Islands, Scotland's northmost archipelago, are home to a rich knitting heritage.
Knitting is still part of daily life here. Working in her own contemporary style, knitwear designer Niela Nell Kalra – founder of Nielanell – is part of Shetland’s vibrant textile community.
Contemporary Shetland knitwear
From new takes on traditional Shetland knitwear, to original and unusual garments
Browse all knitwear
About us
Our island knitwear design studio
Nielanell was established in Hoswick, in 2008, by textile designer Niela Nell Kalra.
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Visit Nielanell
In person & virtually
We are based in Hoswick, a small village in the South Mainland of Shetland. Visit the studio shop or make a virtual trip!
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Meet the designer
From lawyer to knitwear designer
A change of career brought Niela Nell Kalra to Shetland, and into the world of knitwear.
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Ethos & Sustainability
Our sustainable Scottish knitwear is designed for wearing, not for trend following
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Painterly colour in sustainable knit
Design and sustainability collide in our colourful and popular Marlet scarves – now back in stock.
Nielanell features in The Observer alongside the greats of Scottish knitwear
Our knitwear has been photographed on location in the Isle of Skye for The Observer Magazine, as part of a story on the success of Scottish knitwear.
Watch Up Helly Aa online, live from Lerwick
If you're in Shetland for the festivities, we'll be at the Up Helly Aa Craft Fair in Lerwick. Our studio is also open with extended hours.
Frozen Shetland, Hoswick in January
Cold weather, beautiful light and snowy colour came to Shetland just after the turn of the year.
The design process
Niela Nell Kalra, founder of Nielanell, on her approach to knitwear design and making
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What you say...
NOT fast fashion but quality lifetime wear.
Nielanell customer, 2021
I wear one of your jackets when I want to feel powerful
Julie, 2021
I so very much appreciate the design aspect of each line - unique and clearly well considered
Nielanell customer, 2021