Craft skills education and its importance to the knitwear industry - a Scottish experience

Tartans, tweed, fairisle and argyle knitwear, Shetland lace, paisley pattern and the finest cashmere have long been associated with Scotland. Historically, Scotland and the Scottish Borders were major processors of woollen textiles for export all over the world and we still have vibrant niche textile industries particularly in the luxury sector. Textiles and fashion remain major sectors of Scotland’s creative Industries, employing thousands in design and highly skilled production. The School of Textiles and Design, situated in Galashiels, has a long history of delivering training and education tailored to the needs of the Textiles Industry. Originally established as The Scottish Woollen Technical College in 1883 by local manufacturers, graduates worked in the local industries, over the years the School has broadened its offering to prepare graduates for both local and global Industries. Many graduates work for and lead major fashion and textile brands while others start their own small businesses offering bespoke or luxury products to local and international customers. Our degree programmes educate our students in: design; practical craft skills; textile and fashion technology; trend, Industry and market understanding; critical analysis and reflection. Many UK institutions are reducing the practical skills training, facilities and practical work in their programmes for a number of reasons including cost cutting. The School of textiles and design remains committed to delivering practical programmes and boasts the best textile and fashion production facilities in a UK University. This paper will explore why we believe that craft skills are so critical to producing the best graduates and supporting our textile Industry.