Craft trails around Scotland

Follow one of Scotland’s craft trails

The light, landscapes and natural materials on offer in Scotland have long provided inspiration to artists and craftsmen. Why not follow one of the regional craft trails to get involved in the Year of Creative Scotland?

Explore Orkney to find inspiration and take home a little piece of the isles. Follow the Orkney Craft Trail, which was set up by the Orkney Crafts Association (OCA) to support local professionals involved in producing and selling arts and crafts. Personal tours really bring the works to life and you will often be able to view goods being developed as well as the finished products to gain a greater understanding of the craftsmanship involved. From wildlife jewellery to traditional knitwear, individual pottery pieces and runic rings inscribed with ancient symbols known as runes there is plenty to choose from. You can also witness the production of Orkney chairs, made to a distinctive design which is unique to the islands.

A craft trail has also been introduced in Shetland for artists, shops and outlets. Innovative designs are available in varied materials including wood, glass, pottery and textiles and there is no set route so that you can choose to journey across the isles or simply select one type of craft which interests you.

Back on the mainland, the West Kilbride Craft Town is well worth a visit, with eight craft studios offering the chance to view and buy quality work from amateur makers and those with international acclaim. Overlooking the Isle of Arran on Scotland’s west coast, this is a wonderful place to admire crafts inspired by beautiful scenery.