Gordon Cree seen knitting on Game of Wool. Photo: Channel 4

UK: Shetland Organisation of Knitters “Shocked & Saddened” by Representation in Channel 4 “Game of Wool” Show! (7.11.2025)

Small patterns in Fair Isle are referred to as “peerie patterns”, but Leask has said they “would never” refer to them as “peeries”.

“That’s never been used by a Shetlander,” she said.

“A lot of Shetlanders have said they have never even heard of that.”

Leask described the misinformation in the show as “frustrating”, and said knitters locally spent a lot of their time having to clear up similar confusion with visitors to the isles.

SOK worries now that Game of Wool will have a further damaging effect on misinformation around Shetland knitting.

“The SOK are having to stand up for ourselves,” Leask said.

“The term Fair Isle is going to be lost. Fair Isle is being used when what they are making is not Fair Isle. It’s appropriation.”

And she also railed against Game of Wool as a whole, calling the first challenge – to knit a Fair Isle tank top in 12 hours – “just unrealistic”.

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Chen’s act of kindness has not gone unnoticed in her community. Inspired by her selflessness, neighbours and friends have donated various types of yarn, including wool, mohair, and cotton. Chen made sure to utilize every bit of yarn, creating full sweaters, patchwork designs, as well as scarves and gloves from leftover scraps.

“We all support her,” said Chen’s daughter Xu Tingna, who helps coordinate with charity organizations and deliver the finished products.

At first, Chen’s husband worried that she might tire herself out, but Chen’s passion and decision for knitting won support from her family.

Netizens also praised Chen, with one of them saying, “Those kind deeds bring love and warmth. You are the most beautiful grandma.”