Whimsical Highland Crafter

28/05/2026

22/05/2026

Ewe lookin' at me? 🐑👀
Just a couple of curly sheep keeping me company in the craft room today while they wait for their final touches. I love how much personality comes through with every poke of the needle!
Stay tuned to see them fully finished soon 🌸

13/05/2026

4 Research based reasons to teach your child to knit:

1. Improved self-control.
A 2023 study asked elementary school children to complete inhibition-control tasks after a short knitting session. Researchers found the knitting group performed better on both emotional and non emotional self regulation tasks compared to the control group.

2.Better attention & focus.
A 2025 study found that participants performed better on attention tests after just 20 minutes of crochet. Researchers also observed changes in brain networks linked to attention.

3.Stronger learning skills.
Knitting combines counting, sequencing, pattern recognition, reading instructions, and problem solving all within one activity, which is why fiber crafts are often discussed in hands on education research.

4.Supports motor coordination.
Knitting requires sustained hand movement, visual tracking, coordination, and concentration at the same time. Developmental research has consistently linked fine motor development with broader cognitive development in children.

Sources:

1. Frontiers in Psychology

2.Scientific Reports / PubMed Sebastiano et al. (2025)

3. Craft Yarn Council - ‘Why Teach Knit & Crochet?’

4.Harvard Center on the Developing Child + Child Mind Institute

21/04/2026

We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful wondrous area 💖🌸

19/04/2026

Working on a couple of projects 🙂🌸

16/04/2026

Well, I missed Puffin day on Monday, here is a make from a couple of years ago 🌸

02/04/2026

Local craft made here in Brora by Yasmar Creations, ultimate warmth. 🧡 Add a touch of rustic luxury to your home with these handcrafted, patchwork tweed cushions. Each one is a unique work of art.
Available in the Otter’s Couch

The Otter's Couch Brora

01/04/2026

🫏New Friends at Otter’s Couch! 🐮
Look who just trotted into the shop! Two brand new, handcrafted needle-felted treasures looking for their forever homes.
Whether you’re a fan of the iconic Highland Cow with its wild orange coat or this sweet-faced Donkey, these little characters bring a touch of handmade magic to any shelf.
• Price: £25.00 each
• Location: Exclusively at Otter’s Couch, Brora
Each one is unique and full of personality—perfect as a gift or a treat for yourself. Pop in and say hello before they wander off! 🦌✨

29/03/2026

I can’t believe this was ten years ago 🌸

28/03/2026

Look at this gorgeous jumper hand knitted by Gail in the Highlands of Scotland 💞

It is a unisex jumper, suitable and loved by both ladies and men.

Available in the Otter’s Couch Brora £75.00