W@W Topic of the Month

November 2008

Rags to Riches

This month I would like to tell you all something about a small company inspired and set up by women and now run primarily by women. It links 3 previous monthly topics - it is an ethical, (December 2007) ecological, (February 2008) Social Enterprise (last month’s topic) which promotes recycling and waste reduction.

Rag Tag ’n’ Textile is based in Balmacara Square near Kyle of Lochalsh. It is a unique, innovative and ecological company that handcrafts beautiful items using a variety of recycled materials. A wide range of items are designed in-house and created in workshops both in Balmacara and in Broadford on the Isle of Skye using donated fabrics and wool, reducing waste and looking after the environment. They also create fashionable items of eco-couture, each piece being as individual as you are. They now have a contract with Highland Council to divert 10 tons of textiles from land fill per annum.

It is the result of a craft group set up by a local TAG (Training and Guidance) unit. All the people that attended the group suffered from mental health problems but everyone had a talent and was more than willing to share their skill. Gradually the group evolved and as their skills level grew they began to sell things. Recycled materials were used as resources were limited and from this group Rag Tag ‘n’ Textile emerged to become what it is today.

The enterprise is run by a voluntary committee (predominantly women) who now employ 6 women including a former volunteer and a TAG leaver who are textile operatives. There are a number of volunteers who help in many other ways including teaching the trainees new skills by passing on some of theirs. Again they are predominantly women whose lives become enriched by the experience.

They work with people who have mental health issues, teaching traditional textile skills. They also run workshops and classes for the general public and are hoping to do some work in the future with people who have Alzheimer’s as well as with young people in the 17-25 year old age group. Students from the Plockton High School, the local secondary, have also done work experience with this company and now the young enterprise group from the school are collaborating on a project to develop an innovative hand weaving kit.

Everything they make is unique and they are pleased to take orders for individual items.

So if you would like to find out more about the company or make your ethical, social or environmental voice heard this Christmas you might like to take a look at their website or pay them a visit at Workshop 2, The Steadings, Balmacara Square, Kyle of Lochalsh, IV40 8DJ.

Contributed by Fiona MacEwan, Skye & Lochalsh W@W Co-ordinator