Dumfriesshire Heritage Knitters Create Bespoke Garments for VisitScotland Campaign
In a bid to attract tourists to Scotland even in the winter months, a team of heritage knitters from Dumfriesshire has crafted made-to-measure woollen knitwear for a Highland cow named Julie. The knitters, from A’ The Airts Community Centre in Sanquhar, designed a stylish cardigan and hat using their popular pattern called ‘the Duke’, adorned with thistles.
Julie, affectionately known as Julie, 4th of Thaggnam, is a nine-year-old cow with a penchant for the limelight, making her the ideal ‘super moo-del’ for VisitScotland’s winter breaks campaign. The images of Julie lounging in a field at Newton Farm Holidays & Tours aim to showcase Scotland’s beauty in the colder months, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the traditional summer season.
Yvonne Barber, the manager of A’ The Airts centre, expressed delight at the collaboration with VisitScotland and Newton Farm Holidays, highlighting the skill and dedication of the knitters in producing the bespoke garments. The Sanquhar Pattern Design team, established in 2014 to preserve the town’s knitting heritage, comprises eight knitters and three trainees ranging from 17 to 80 years old. Using wool from Scottish suppliers like Merrick and Todd & Duncan, the project emphasises Scotland’s textile legacy.
Vicki Miller, CEO of VisitScotland, emphasised the campaign’s goal to promote Scotland as a year-round destination, enhancing visitor experience and supporting sustainable tourism. By featuring Highland cows in Scottish attire knitted by local artisans, the campaign aims to inspire travellers to embrace winter getaways and explore the country’s natural and cultural treasures beyond the peak tourist season.
The collaboration between heritage knitters and tourism authorities underscores the significance of tradition, craftsmanship, and community spirit in promoting Scotland’s unique attractions. As tourists seek authentic and enriching experiences, initiatives like the Highland cow knitwear project showcase the country’s charm and creativity, encouraging visitors to discover Scotland’s hidden gems throughout the year.