Wool & Lopapeysur

Where to buy authentic Icelandic lopapeysa — patterns and history

Handknitting Association

Reykjavík (Skólavörðustígur)

From 25,000 ISK

Authentic lopapeysur, handmade by members. Great pattern selection.

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Geysir

Reykjavík & more

From 30,000 ISK

High quality wool, modern design. Popular with tourists.

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66°North

Reykjavík & more

From 35,000 ISK

Outdoor brand, quality. Originally workwear.

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Alafoss

Mosfellsbær

From 20,000 ISK

Wool shop, large selection of wool and sweaters. Pattern collection.

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Kolaportið

Reykjavík (weekends)

From 15,000 ISK

Market, cheaper than shops. Quality varies.

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Þingborg

Selfoss

From 22,000 ISK

Handmade sweaters from the South. Direct from knitters.

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Rammagerðin

Reykjavík

From 28,000 ISK

Icelandic crafts and sweaters. Old shop.

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What is a lopapeysa?

A lopapeysa is a handmade sweater from Icelandic wool with a circular pattern around the neck. Icelandic wool is unique — two layers: water-resistant outer and soft inner.

Lopi is unspun wool (plate lopi) which makes the sweater lighter than traditional knitting.

Famous patterns

Circular pattern
Classic circular pattern around the neck — the most famous version.
Thor's hammer
Pattern with Thor's hammer shape. Popular modern version.
Glyfsgjaf
Mixed patterns with eight-pointed stars. Star pattern.
Kotapeysa
Simple, cross pattern. Originally for fishermen.

How to spot an authentic sweater

An authentic lopapeysa is labeled "Handknit in Iceland" or from the Handknitting Association. Fake sweaters are often cheaper but made abroad.

Wash in cold water, by hand. Use wool soap. Don't tumble dry — lay flat to dry. Store with lavender against moths.

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