Exclusive free exhibit allows people to tell their own stories of world leading textile region

A new community-led exhibit telling the people’s story of one of the world’s leading textile regions will go on display at Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor centre.

Article Source: Great Tapestry of Scotland
Last Updated: 24 June 2022 10:25

A new community-led exhibit telling the people’s story of one of the world’s leading textile regions will go on display for the first time in The Great Tapestry of Scotland’s five-star visitor centre in Galashiels Heartland of the Scottish Border from Wednesday 6 July 2022.

Running until Sunday 17 July as part of the Year of Stories 2022, entry to A Yarn Worth Spinning will be free, so that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the experience.

Developed by leading academics at Heriot-Watt University’s School of Textiles and Design alongside local textile enthusiasts, the exhibit will feature new Borders inspired textile designs and an exclusive Borders textiles documentary by Jedburgh Grammar School alumni Ruidi Collins (now a producer with award-winning film makers Redeeming Features, whose work in recent years includes a Netflix US and Amazon Prime feature film and a feature length documentary about improving mental health in sport ‘Ten Count’, starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.).

Announcing the opening of A Yarn Worth Spinning, Centre Director for The Great Tapestry of Scotland at Live Borders, Sandy Maxwell-Forbes said: “The Great Tapestry of Scotland is where the people’s story of Scotland begins. Allowing people to tell their own stories in their own way, and inspiring future generations to realise their full potential is at the heart of everything we do, so we are absolutely delighted to be working with Heriot-Watt University, Redeeming Features and the local community to showcase this inspiring new exhibit. We are also thrilled that, thanks to the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund and Energise Galashiels Trust, we can open up this opportunity for everyone to enjoy free of charge

“As the home to one of the world’s longest tapestries, handstitched by over 1,000 stitchers from across Scotland, featuring some of the country’s greatest textile stories, it is incredibly fitting that everyone can now enjoy the story of the Borders’ world-renowned textile heritage in our permanent new five-star visitor centre in Galashiels.”

The exhibit centres around a series of Borders inspired textiles, clothing and interior designs by some of the University’s leading textile and design students. Each of the designs reinforce how textile heritage can be used to narrate, design and generate sustainable futures for Galashiels and the wider Scottish Borders.

The short film charts the town’s textile heritage and uncovers some unique hidden gems along the way, including the textile murals featured in the Lucy Sanderson Hall.

Speaking about their involvement, Dr Lucy Robertson, Assistant Professor at Heriot-Watt University’s School of Textiles and Design, said: “We were thrilled to support The Great Tapestry of Scotland in putting together A Yarn Worth Spinning. We’re incredibly proud of all of our students and very impressed with the designs by local school pupils also featured.

“Design centres on working with - and for - people. Inspired by the people, place, heritage and all the opportunities Galashiels presents, every element of this exhibit highlights the interdependence of economic, social and cultural factors on communities. It truly evidences how local heritage inspires the designers of tomorrow to learn from what came before and support communities to continue to grow and flourish in a sustainable way.”

Emma Kilpatrick from Perth, Scotland, whose Bernat Klein and Borders moorland inspired textiles feature in the exhibit added: “I feel honoured to be part of this brilliant opportunity. It is exciting to have such an amazing museum so close to our campus. It is really fitting for the museum to be in Galashiels due to its rich textile history. When you are emersed in this textile culture, it pushes you to explore creative boundaries and new ideas every day.”

Explaining the significance to Galashiels Heartland of the Borders. Mike Gray, Chair of Energise Gala Trust said: “From humble beginnings, Galashiels and the Scottish Borders built a global reputation for quality fabric and design. The textile industry was the major employer in the region, shaping townscapes, social and economic history, and culture. It is incredibly apt that A Yarn Worth Spinning continues this rich story and shines shine a spotlight on all that is great about our town past, present and future and further supports other regeneration initiatives which Energise Galashiels Trust are delivering in our town centre.”

Marie Christie, Head of Development at VisitScotland said: "We are delighted to be supporting A Yarn Worth Spinning through the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund.

“Events play an important role in our communities as they sustain livelihoods and help to celebrate and promote our unique places, spaces and stories. Themed Years are all about collaboration and Museums Galleries Scotland, National Lottery Heritage Fund and VisitScotland are pleased to work in partnership to create this fund to showcase community stories.

“By supporting events taking place within our communities, including A Yarn Worth Spinning, new opportunities will be provided for locals and visitors to come together and find out more about the diverse stories, past and present, that our communities have to share.”

A Yarn Worth Spinning will be displayed in The Great Tapestry of Scotland’s Discovery Centre from Wednesday 6 July to 17 July. Entry to the exhibit is free for everyone. No booking is required.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland centre in Galashiels is operated by the charity Live Borders, which manages many of the cultural and leisure facilities in the Scottish Borders, including the five-star Jim Clark Motorsport Museum and the Heart of Hawick entertainment venue.

The architectural-award-winning building was purpose built to house The Great Tapestry of Scotland, which tells the people’s true story of Scotland from millions of years BC to present day. The brainchild of Alexander McCall Smith, tapestry is one of the world’s largest community arts projects. It was hand-stitched by a team of 1,000 stitchers from across Scotland, using 160 linen panels and over 300 miles of wool (enough to lay the entire length of Scotland from the border with England to the tip of Shetland). The panels were designed by artist Andrew Crummy, based on a narrative written by Scottish Borders-based award-winning writer and historian Alistair Moffat.

The centre is home to two galleries, a cafe and workshops that allow participants to meet and learn from makers. Grayson Perry’s Essex House Tapestries, which tell the life story of a fictional character Julie Cope, are currently on display in the Centre’s Gallery 1420 until 16 August. The centre is open to the public 7 days a week from 9.30am to 5pm and The Stitchers Cafe is open 9.30am to 4pm. Entry to a Yarn Worth Spinning is free.
Prices to view the Great Tapestry of Scotland and the Essex House Tapestries vary.

To book, or for more information visit greattapestryofscotland.com

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Edinburgh News

Vault City launches festive, Quaffable Treats, beer box inspired by Christmas chocolate tins

An Edinburgh brewery has created the 'perfect gift' for beer lovers this Christmas, inspired by the chocolates people hunt for first in the tin.

Red Hot Chilli Pipers headline free weekend of celebrations with Christmas ceilidh and market

The Ross Bandstand sparked festivities on Sunday with its opening Light Night Concert, and now has a jam-packed Scottish weekend in store of free events in honour of St Andrew's Day.

Somewhere by Nico Launches Festive Cocktail Experience

This festive season, Glasgow and Edinburgh relevellers can relive the magic of Christmas past as Somewhere by Nico unveil a brand-new immersive experience!

Zizzi celebrates a fresh era with a new menu and app, by giving 132 people free pasta for one year

Zizzi has introduced a new food & drink menu across all its restaurants, launched a brand-new Zizzi app, and is giving 132 people free pasta for one year.

Festive Season at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched some new offerings designed for memorable Christmas stays, spectacular Hogmanay celebrations, and cozy winter escapes.

Leading the charge! Edinburgh car retailer hosts electric vehicle experience

John Clark Volvo Edinburgh is celebrating after its first EV Customer Experience Evening was a success with local drivers.

Six of the Best: Iconic concerts that rocked Murrayfield as the famous stadium turns 100

Scottish Gas Murrayfield has hosted some of the biggest shows Scotland has ever seen – and fans have had their say on the standouts.

Second year of Urban Forestry Programme opens across Scotland

Community groups, organisations and schools across Scotland are being invited to apply for grants of up to £100,000.

Fire and Ice captivates thousands as Castle of Light opens in spectacular style

Over 4,700 people descended on Edinburgh Castle this weekend as Castle of Light: Fire and Ice officially opened to the public!

Heather On The Hill Festival Announced

Edinburgh Summer Sessions is delighted to announce Heather On The Hill Festival, a brand-new family-focused one day festival taking place at the Royal Highland Centre on Saturday 22 August.

The Vittoria Group Launches Black Friday Offer

With Black Friday just a week away, the family run Vittoria Group is launching one of Edinburgh’s biggest, and most giftable, foodie offers with 50% off vouchers across all venues.

Free sweets at brand new Edinburgh store opening this weekend

Sweet lovers in Edinburgh can enjoy a free treat on Saturday 22nd November, as Ambala opens its brand-new store on Gorgie Road.

United Airlines Celebrates Girls in Aviation Day at Edinburgh Airport

United Airlines inspires girls to pursue careers in aviation by opening the doors to their operation at Edinburgh Airport.

Christmas arrives at The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Visitors to the Palace of Holyroodhouse will see the State Apartments decked with glistening Christmas trees, garlands, and a magnificent table display to celebrate the festive season.

Celebrate the Festive Season with Caorunn Gin at the St James Quarter

Caorunn, the award-winning small batch gin from the Scottish Highlands, has unveiled an exclusive festive pop-up stand at St James Quarter Edinburgh, running until 31st December 2025.

BBC Cbeebies starts the Panto Season at Edinburgh Cinemas

Now a festive family tradition, the CBeebies panto Cinderella is coming to the big screen in Edinburgh from Friday 21st November.

Scottish rugby stars to ignite Edinburgh Castle this Friday at Castle of Light: Fire & Ice

Edinburgh Castle is set to shine this Friday (21 November) as Scotland rugby stars Matt Currie and Adelle Ferrie officially switch on the spectacular Castle of Light: Fire & Ice.

Celebrate The Autumn Internationals at The Ivy On The Square, Edinburgh

As the Rugby Autumn Internationals take centre stage across the UK and Ireland, The Ivy on The Square, Edinburgh is serving up a winning special worthy of champions.

Spotlight shines on the first shows announced for redeveloped Kings Theatre

The King’s Theatre takes a major step forward on the path to reopening following its landmark redevelopment, unveiling some of the first shows set to appear on the iconic Edinburgh stage.

Four Major International Performances Go on Sale for Edinburgh International Festival 2026

Following a record number of sold-out performances in 2025, audiences can book early for what promise to be must-see performances in 2026!

Christmas in Edinburgh and Glasgow: Celebrate the festive season with Candlelight Concerts

Featuring classic Christmas carols, this live, multi-sensory musical experience will light up St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral and Merchants House and The Trades Hall for an unforgettable evening.

Find a Festive Backdrop in Edinburgh, East Lothian and Fife

From frosty gardens to candlelit palaces, National Trust for Scotland places in Edinburgh, East Lothian and Fife are offering a host of winter experiences and special events this festive season.

The Leddie Hotel in Aberlady announced its Christmas 2025 programme

The award-winnng Leddie Hotel in Aberlady has announced its Christmas 2025 programme, bringing together creative workshops, family experiences, live music and seasonal dining.

Charity calls for urgent path funding to invest in safe, local routes

Edinburgh locals are being encouraged to walk more as charity calls for urgent path funding to invest in safe, local routes.

Edinburgh Open Workshop Unveils An Exciting New Course Line Up for 2026

Edinburgh Open Workshop unveils an expanded range of hands-on workshops in woodworking, welding, DIY, mixed media, and two newly developed laser-cutting workshops.

Edinburgh locals encouraged to embrace the season of giving

Edinburgh locals are encouraged to embrace the season of giving with the launch of The Leith Collective’s Re-Gifting Tree and Christmas Tree Exchange projects.

Edinburgh International Film Festival announces dates and submission details for 2026

The revitalised Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced today that its 79th edition will run from 13 - 19 August 2026.

The Doddie Weir match ball delivery is voted Greatest Murrayfield Moment

Doddie Weir’s emotional match ball delivery at Murrayfield in 2017 has been voted the greatest moment in the stadium’s 100-year history, after thousands of fans took part in a nationwide poll.

Forth Awards celebrates Amy Macdonald and Wet Wet Wet alongside local heroes

The Forth Awards, presented by Livingston Designer Outlet, crowned the very best of Edinburgh and the East last night at a star-studded award ceremony.