Knitting for a Cause: 'Skjól' Sweater Campaign Unites Icelanders for Women's Shelter

A knitting pattern named 'Skjól' has become a nationwide phenomenon in Iceland, uniting people in support of victims of domestic violence. Designed by Tinna Laufdal, the colorful sweater pattern's goal is to raise societal awareness of systematic abuse patterns in relationships. Each purchase of the pattern directly supports the Kvennaathvarf (Women's Shelter) and signifies visible solidarity with women experiencing abuse.

Linda Dröfn Gunnarsdóttir, director of the Women's Shelter, described the response as "an absolute fairy tale." She highlighted the community's consistent support, particularly in fundraising for a new shelter facility, which they will move into in August. "People have stood by us and, with their support, sent us these messages that they stand with us in serving women and children who need to flee violence," she stated.

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This has been an absolute fairy tale. Throughout the years, we have felt great support in society for the Women's Shelter. In recent periods, we have been fundraising for a new shelter that we are moving into in August, and it is purely thanks to the community. People have stood by us and with support sent us these messages, that they stand with us in serving women and children who need to flee violence.

The 'Skjól' pattern has seen immense popularity, with over 5,000 sold. This has led to a demand for specific yarns, with some shops needing to order more from abroad. Online, dedicated Facebook groups have emerged for knitters to share advice, showcase their sweaters, and discuss color combinations. The campaign has also spurred organized events like knitting gatherings, fostering a sense of community.

Gunnarsdóttir emphasized that the campaign is achieving its goal of bringing people together. "We want to strengthen bonds between people through this, for them to come together and feel this beautiful energy," she said. "One's heart warms when one feels this solidarity and empathy. At a time when we disagree on quite a lot in society, we agree on this: to fight gender-based violence and violence in close relationships."

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We want to strengthen bonds between people through this, for them to come together and feel this beautiful energy. One's heart warms when one feels this solidarity and empathy. At a time when we disagree on quite a lot in society, we agree on this: to fight gender-based violence and violence in close relationships.