Memories of tartan

The last time I experienced such bone-chilling cold weather as we did over the last few days in the Western Cape, was during a December holiday in Scotland some years ago. While it was awfully cold, the landscapes were beautiful, and I can still vividly recall the pretty picture of fat white woolly sheep grazing on deep green pastures amongst age-old stone walls, against a backdrop of snow capped mountain peaks.

Whilst in Scotland we visited a few wool mills and I felt like a child in a candy store when confronted with all the tartan throws, blankets and scarves. Those rich, warm, jewel-like colours and the oh-so-soft-to-touch textures were real heart warmers. How I wish I had invested in one of those throws - I would definitely be wrapped up in one right now. And I can just imagine what those gorgeous colours would look like on my bed - completely cancelling out the dull grey light coming in through my bedroom window right now.

What I did buy, however, were a few skeins of gorgeously soft pure lambswool. Back at home I spent ages knitting hubby a traditional Aran cable sweater. After wearing it only a few times, it inadvertently landed in the washing machine. Needless to say, it came out felted and several sizes smaller. So, alas, the beautiful sweater is now only a memory too.
But I am totally tartan and aran inspired right now, and I would love to bring that look into the shop. Maybe even before winter is over ...
Watch this space!


Image sources: Pic 1:www.totallytartan.net; Pic 2: www.brontebydesign.co.uk; Pic 3:www.totallytartan.net; Pic 4:www.thewoolcompany.co.uk;
Pic 5:www.ainecreations.com