Galashiels’ reputation as a world-leading centre for textiles and design has once again been recognised on the international stage, after a graduate from Heriot-Watt University’s School of Textiles and Design created the official tartan to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Fashion and Textile Design graduate Kaci McEwan won a Scottish Government competition to design the commemorative tartan, which was officially presented to America250 in Washington DC during Independence Day celebrations on the 4th of July.
The competition was open to students from the School of Textiles and Design in Galashiels, highlighting the exceptional creativity and talent being developed in the town. Kaci’s winning design was chosen from five finalists and draws inspiration from the deep historical links between Scotland and the United States, paying tribute to James Wilson and John Witherspoon, the two Scottish-born signatories of the Declaration of Independence.
Speaking about the achievement, Kaci said she felt “honoured” to represent Scotland through her design.
“Tartan is such a huge part of our culture and history,” she said. “I never imagined I would be part of a project with such a global reach.”
The design will now be woven into a limited edition run of commemorative scarves at Lovat Mill in Hawick, celebrating not only Scotland’s textile heritage but also the continued importance of the Borders textile industry.
The achievement shines a spotlight on Galashiels’ internationally recognised School of Textiles and Design, which has produced generations of talented designers and continues to cement the town’s reputation as a centre of excellence for fashion, textiles and innovation. It’s another reminder that the creativity nurtured in Galashiels continues to make an impact far beyond the Scottish Borders.
Image Credit – Susannah Stevens
