Crafting Scotland - meet the hands and hearts behind Scottish Heritage Crafts

I’m thrilled to share this episode of Crafting Scotland, where I had the pleasure of chatting with Susan Anderson, the publishing editor of the Journal of Scottish Yarn.
If you haven’t yet come across this beautiful biannual publication, think part magazine, part reference book, you’re in for a treat.
Susan and I both had a similar visions of making Scottish Crafts, in Susan’s case Scottish Textiles, more accessible in the modern world.
Susan’s journey into the world of Scottish textiles is inspiring. After 30 years in financial services, she followed her passion for knitting and history to create a dedicated platform for Scottish fibres, yarns, and heritage.
What started as a personal curiosity has blossomed into a publication that celebrates everything from tartan and tweed to cashmere, capturing centuries of craftsmanship.
When I got a hold of the first issue of The Journal of Scottish Yarn back in 2022, I was hooked to the depth of information, beautiful curated stories and amazing knitting or crochet patterns at the end of the journal.
I knew instantly that this was going to be my go to magazine for textiles Made in Scotland.

The Journal of Scottish Yarn
Launched in 2022, the journal is published every May and November, though Susan hopes to move the autumn issue forward to coincide with the Glasgow School of Yarn which is normally held in October. Each issue balances rich historical insights with contemporary projects, including patterns for knitting and crochet, making it both a collectible and a practical resource for crafters.
From her very first issue, Susan wanted to highlight Scotland’s native sheep breeds, collaborating with illustrator Mandy Tate to map out all ten breeds across the country. She also drew inspiration from Portuguese textile entrepreneur Rosa Pamar, whose work in documenting native sheep influenced the Journal’s approach. Not only does the journal explore sheep breeds like the Scottish Blackface, the North Ronaldsay (seaweed-eating sheep from Orkney), and the Beaumont (Scottish Merino), but it also tells the fascinating stories behind them (some dating back centuries).
One of the most remarkable aspects of Susan’s work is how it brings people together. She has connected farmers, mill owners, spinners, and dyers, including Louise at Jamieson’s of Shetland to Gillian at Lunan Bay into a community passionate about celebrating and preserving Scotland’s textile heritage.
This network even led to discussions with the Scottish Government, chaired by Lorna Slater, Green MSP, highlighting the importance of storytelling and recognition for Scottish textiles on a national level.
Susan explained that themes part of the discussions were: strategy, training and apprenticeships, as well as marketing especially Made in Scotland.
Looking Ahead: Issue 9 and Beyond
Susan is currently working on Issue 9, set to release this May. It coincides with Unravel Spring Festival (13th - 15th Feb) and the Tangled Galashiels Fibre Festival (30th & 31st May).
This issue celebrates the work of designer Bernard Klein, with contributions from talented crafters including Samira Hill, the journal’s tech editor. Expect inspiring designs and an in-depth exploration of Klein’s impact on Scottish textiles.
Upcoming events:
* Online Talk: Scottish Wool Breeds, 10th March at 10:00 am BST on Zoom
* Woolly Good Edinburgh, 17th & 18th April 2026
* Tangled Galashiels 30th & 31st May 2026

I personally must say, that for me, what makes Susan’s work so special is how she brings depth and context to the materials in our hands. Each page of the journal is a doorway into Scotland’s textile past and present. Whether you’re a fibre enthusiast, a crafter, or just someone fascinated by the stories woven into the fabric of our culture, there’s something here for everyone.
You can explore past issues, purchase the journal, or find links to Susan’s talks through the links in the show notes.
And trust me, you’ll want to keep these journals on your bookshelf as much as your favourite craft books.
Where to find Susan:
Website: https://yarnjournal.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejournalofscottishyarns/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YarnJournal
Subscribe, Share & Follow:
Don’t miss future episodes celebrating Scotland’s traditional crafts and the incredible people keeping these skills alive. Subscribe to Crafting Scotland on Apple iTunes, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.
TAKE PART IN SEASON TWO:
Share Your Story:
Do you have a traditional Scottish craft story to share or know someone who does? I’d love to hear from you! Use this Contact Form to get in touch or through my website or social media.
Support the Show:
If you enjoyed this or any episodes from Season One, please leave us a rating and review. It helps other craft enthusiasts discover our podcast!
As always, thank you for listening. Until next time 💜


This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit devinetoursofscotland.substack.com

As 2026 begins, the latest episode of Crafting Scotland brings listeners an inspiring conversation with James Donald, a master weaver, teacher, and maker based in Edinburgh. Known for his slow, considered approach to textiles, James combines local fibres, traditional skills, and a touch of global influence to create work that is deeply human and meditative.
James’s journey into weaving began at the Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, where he graduated in 1993 with first-class honours in constructed textiles. While initially drawn to tapestry weaving, he discovered a profound connection with cloth weaving during his studies. A travel award took him to Australia, where serendipity led to a three-month artist residency at the Canberra Institute of the Arts. There, he not only honed his rug-making skills but also found a new passion for teaching, an avenue he had never anticipated but quickly embraced.
Returning to Scotland, James established the Weave Studio in 1997 and later taught at the Scottish College of Textiles and Dundee College for many years. Over time, he noticed a gap in accessible weaving courses across Scotland, inspiring him to expand his weekend and evening classes. Today, he teaches a diverse cohort from GPs and barristers to architects and artists, creating an environment where students learn collaboratively, discovering the joy of weaving together.
James describes weaving as a meditative practice. The process from preparing the loom to threading needles, slows time and provides a space for reflection, creativity, and stress relief. His teaching approach celebrates experimentation and shared discovery, with students encouraged to explore materials like Merino lambswool, Shetland yarn, and cotylin. This focus on “slow craft” parallels the principles of slow travel, emphasizing immersion, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with materials and process.
Influenced by Japanese textile traditions, particularly saori weaving and Sashiko stitching, James continues to innovate in his own work, incorporating stitched designs directly into fabric while maintaining a strong connection to Scottish fibre heritage. His recent projects also explore the use of “retired stock” yarn, transforming overlooked materials into beautiful, living textiles.
Beyond technique, James treasures the relationships formed through his classes. Many students return regularly, building a supportive community that extends beyond the studio. Visiting exhibitions together, sharing skills, and forming lasting friendships that’s what makes it so special. For James, this is the true reward of teaching: holding a space where people from all walks of life can connect, create, and find respite from their busy lives.
Through his work, James Donald embodies the enduring relevance of heritage crafts. He demonstrates that weaving is not just a skill, but a form of connection—to materials, to tradition, and to each other. As he continues to develop new techniques and nurture his community, it’s clear that Scottish textile arts remain vibrant, evolving, and deeply human.
To find out more about the courses James runs, visit his website here:
PICK ONE
You can also follow his Instagram handle where he mainly showcases the design and artwork of his students: Instagram Handle
Subscribe & Follow:
Don’t miss future episodes celebrating Scotland’s traditional crafts and the incredible people keeping these skills alive. Subscribe to Crafting Scotland on Apple iTunes, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.
TAKE PART IN SEASON TWO:
Share Your Story:
Do you have a traditional Scottish craft story to share or know someone who does? I’d love to hear from you! Use this Contact Form to get in touch or through my website or social media.
Support the Show:
If you enjoyed this or any episodes from Season One, please leave us a rating and review. It helps other craft enthusiasts discover our podcast!
As always, thank you for listening. Until next time 💜


This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit devinetoursofscotland.substack.com

Oh, you’re going to love this conversation!
I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Michelle Cohen, and honestly, her story is one of those that just makes you smile. You know when you meet someone and you can just feel their passion for what they do? That’s Michelle.
So here’s the thing, Michelle paints on glass. Not canvas, not paper: GLASS. And when I tell you her work is stunning, I mean you literally have to look twice to figure out if you’re looking at a painting or a photograph. It’s that good.
Michelle’s originally from the prairies in Saskatchewan, Canada, which are about as flat as you can get. So when she moved to Glasgow permanently back in 2011, she completely fell head over heels for our mountains and coastlines.
I mean, can you blame her? And you can see that love affair with Scottish landscapes in most of the pieces she creates.
But what I really loved hearing about was how she discovered this whole glass-painting technique.
Picture this: she’s living in Malaysia 20 years ago, a friend gives her some IKEA clip frames, and she just decides to pour acrylic paint all over them to see what happens. And boom 💥 she discovered this incredible way of creating depth and vibrancy that you just can’t get any other way.
Now she’s pushing it further, going hyperrealistic with buildings and animals, seeing just how detailed she can get.
To make it extra special though, Michelle frames many of her Scottish landscapes with reclaimed whisky barrel staves.
Each piece of wood has its own history, its own story, and when you pair that with a Scottish landscape... it’s just magic.
Now, if you’re in Glasgow, you might already know Michelle’s name because she’s been a massive part of our art community.
Most recently though, after all that time putting everyone else first, Michelle’s finally taking time for herself.
She’s got a pop-up shop at Excite in Braehead until January ‘26, and she’s just... painting. Creating. Getting into that flow state.

And wait until you hear about her adventures: last year she sailed from Shetland to Lithuania on a 103-year-old ship during the summer solstice. I mean, come on!
And next June, she’s heading to the northern Himalayas in Pakistan to do documentary photography for an eyesight charity. As someone whose entire livelihood depends on being able to see, helping people get glasses in rural villages is incredibly meaningful to her.
What I really appreciated in our chat was Michelle’s perspective on protecting local heritage and community spaces. We talked about how important it is to preserve these venues that hold the soul of the city, even if they’re only 40-odd years old.
So grab a cuppa, settle in, and come meet Michelle. Whether you’re interested in art techniques, community building, or just hearing from someone who’s found that beautiful balance between giving back and following their own creative path, this conversation has something for you.
Find Michelle: Pop-up shop at Excite, Braehead (open until January)
Instagram: @cohenart11
Facebook: Cohen - Art
Subscribe & Follow:
Don’t miss future episodes celebrating Scotland’s traditional crafts and the incredible people keeping these skills alive. This episode concludes the first season and there are 14 wonderful artists talking about their crafts and their love for Scotland. If you not already have listened to those episodes, make sure you do. There’s something of interest for every crafter.
Do subscribe to Crafting Scotland on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
LOOKING FOR THE NEXT BATCH OF INCREDIBLE ARTISTS FOR SEASON 2 !!
Share Your Story:
Do you have a traditional Scottish craft story to share or know someone who does? I’d love to hear from you! Use this Contact Form to get in touch or through my website or social media.
Support the Show:
If you enjoyed this or any previous episode please leave us a rating and review - it helps other craft enthusiasts discover our podcast!
As always, thank you for listening. It means a lot. 💙



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit devinetoursofscotland.substack.com

Join me for an inspiring conversation with Anne Hill, Alzheimer’s Scotland’s Quilter in Residence, as she shares her remarkable journey from learning to sew in Shetland to creating quilts that heal, comfort, and connect communities worldwide.
What You’ll Discover:
* The history and evolution of quilting in Scotland from necessity to art form
* How memory quilts help dementia patients unlock forgotten memories
* The remarkable story of a man who hadn’t spoken in 5 years until Football Memories sessions
* Anne’s international “Changing Minds” project spanning 40 countries
* Practical quilting tips from a master quilter with decades of experience
* The therapeutic benefits of quilting for mental health and wellbeing
* How quilts are being used in hospitals, for cancer patients, and premature babies
* The difference between men’s and women’s approaches to memory quilts
* Why symbols work better than photographs for triggering memories

I met Ann for the first time when I took up a beginners quilting workshop in the winter of 2023/2024 which was absolutely wonderful. Her teaching style was warm, friendly and with a lot of patience!!
It was held at Shambellie House near Dumfries, which is an excellent venue for smaller crafting classes. And since Ann lives not too far from the venue, she’s there quite often.
In this episode, Ann takes us through the rich tradition of Scottish quilting and reveals how this ancient craft has evolved into a powerful tool for therapy, memory care, and social connection. From covering Hampden Park’s entire pitch with 5,012 quilts to sending 650 “quilted hugs” during COVID-19, Anne’s work demonstrates the profound impact that needle, thread, and fabric can have on people’s lives.
As Alzheimer’s Scotland’s Quilter in Residence, Ann creates memory quilts and teaches quilting to everyone from primary school children to Rotary clubs. She is a past president and a member of the International Rotary Quilters.
Her involvement and initiation of so many wonderful projects is a strong testament to her love for people and quilting.
Contact & Donations:
Ann welcomes fabric donations and speaking invitations. If you have fabric, curtains, sheets, ties, or other materials you’d like to donate, and cannot find your regional Scottish quilting guild contact, then please get in touch with Ann directly. She can then connect you with local quilting groups throughout Scotland to ensure your donations go to good use.
You can find Ann on Facebook or via the Shambellie House website.
If you wish to have a copy of Ann’s “Change your mind around the world” project booklet then you can download it HERE.
Subscribe & Follow:
Don’t miss future episodes celebrating Scotland’s traditional crafts and the incredible people keeping these skills alive. Subscribe to Crafting Scotland on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Share Your Story:
Do you have a traditional Scottish craft story to share or wish to shout out about your unique craft in Scotland? I’d love to hear from you!
Simply fill in this FORM or contact me through my website or social media.
Support the Show:
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review - it helps other craft enthusiasts discover our podcast!
Thank you for listening! 💙



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit devinetoursofscotland.substack.com

I had the most wonderful conversation with Elisabeth Viguié Culshaw for this episode! She’s a natural dyer and botanical printer based in Glasgow’s West End, and her story is absolutely fascinating.
Elisabeth didn’t always work with plants and dyes. For years, she was up and down ladders in a hard hat doing conservation work.
But around 2015, she discovered botanical printing and everything changed. The transition took five years and in her own words she says:
Scotland is lovely, but perhaps a bit too small for what I was trying to build.
Covid changed everything and was the pivotal point for her.
There’s her dye garden patch at Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens, where she hosts “Fling Blue” every September for those who are interested. It’s become quite special.
A self-confessed “INDIGO GIRL”, Elisabeth gets technical for a bit about pigment creation and chemical processes and then takes us on a global journey.
This episode is full of golden story nuggets and I’m sure the more you listen to it the more you discover.
Find out about The Cotinus Community, Slowing Down and Reconnecting, Scotland’s Purple History and how anyone can Learn with Elisabeth.
Some Quotes That Really Stuck With Me
* “I get bored very quickly. I need to keep on learning.”
* “It’s not so much the colour that you are getting from it, it’s actually the fact that it really roots you back into normal life.”
* “When you work with plants, it suddenly resets your mind about the seasons, and that’s something we have so forgotten.”
I could honestly have talked to Elisabeth all day! Her passion for natural dyeing, her global perspective, and the global stories she tells are absolutely captivating. Listen to the full episode to hear about the thin thread of connection that runs around the world through this ancient craft.
Here is how you can connect with Elisabeth:
Elisabeth's LinkTree

As always, thank you for listening to the podcast.
I would love to know what you’re taking away from this episode.
If you are a crafter in Scotland and would like to be a guest on this podcast, then please complete this short form - https://form.typeform.com/to/kUUWIPfR
To stay in touch and find out about upcoming guests then visit me over on Instagram and follow along - https://www.instagram.com/devinetoursofscotland/
In case this inspires you not only to be more creative but also plan a creative holiday in Scotland and would like to find out more about craft days out or tours, then use the contact form via my website to get in touch:
https://www.devinetoursofscotland.co.uk



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit devinetoursofscotland.substack.com