Halliara spencer

Shetland wool spencers were worn as soft, warm undergarments. Often made by children, they were simple garments in riggies with a bit of Shetland lace thrown in. I’ve always loved these traditional undergarments but wanted one to be shown off as an outer garment. My mother Isobel and I, worked together and came up with this design based on traditional Shetland garments of the time but we’ve incorporated additional detailing such as lace patterns up the front and the back as well as lace cuffs and hem.

The pattern begins with a lace border, worked in the round, then the main body and lace charts begin and the spencer is worked upwards to the armholes. Front and back are then worked flat, separately, with armhole shaping as well as neck shaping on the fronts. Shoulders are grafted together. Sleeves are picked up and worked from the armholes down. Lace cuffs are worked separately and then grafted on. The body is made in stocking stitch. The pattern includes 9 sizes ranging from 28-30” to 60-62” chest. I would recommend using 100% Shetland wool for best results, the ultimate in keeping you warm. I have used one colour only for this design.

I hope you enjoy making and wearing your authentic Shetland spencer.