Textile Trades
Discover how textile manufacture played a vital role in the
Scottish economy.
Scottish textiles sold throughout the world, with cotton the
main fabric manufactured in the west of Scotland.
Scottish style
Tweeds and tartans made their contribution to high fashion, and
for several decades there was a huge demand for shawls made in
Paisley in a distinctive pattern that has ever since been
identified with the town (Case 8). Dundee-made jute was used on
every continent (Case 2). Less well known is the distinctive fabric
made in the Vale of Leven (Case 5).
Knitting
The handknitting tradition continued long after machine knitting
had become common, and Shetland knitting, along with the well-known
Fair Isle pattern, survived on a commercial basis (Case 6).
All the rage
But of all Scottish-made fabrics, tartan is the best known,
recognised throughout the world as an emblem of Scotland. It became
fashionable in the 19th century, boosted by George IV's visit to
Edinburgh in 1822. The king himself sported a tartan outfit. Later,
Queen Victoria's enthusiasm for Scotland and the royal family's
taste for Highland dress further popularised tartan.