Our tartan

Every thread in the Witches of Scotland tartan tells a story. From its powerful symbolism to the way it’s crafted and cared for, this tartan is more than cloth — it’s a memorial, a statement, and a commitment to a better way of making and wearing textiles.

Above: Zoe Venditozzi (left) and Claire Mitchell KC (right) wearing Witches of Scotland Drape Kilts.

The Meaning in the Weave

Designed as the first tartan to honour the victims of Scotland’s historic witch trials, each colour and thread has been carefully chosen for its symbolic weight:

  • Black and grey represent the dark times and the ashes of those who were persecuted.
  • Pink and red signify the legal tape that bound the fate of the accused — and reminds us of the systems that still need challenging.
  • The white check is formed of three threads, standing for the campaign’s three aims: Pardon. Apology. Memorial.
  • A large black section of 173 threads marks the 173 years during which the Witchcraft Act was in force (from 1563 to 1736) — both years are included in the thread count itself.

This tartan was officially registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans in February 2025, and is protected by trademark. When you wear it, you wear remembrance.

 

Why Pre-Order?

We don’t make tartan the fast way — we make it the right way.

Your tartan is made to order because we follow a zero-waste, pre-order model rooted in sustainability and respect:

  • Only what’s needed – We produce in small batches based on actual demand, avoiding overproduction and landfill.
  • Crafted with care – Woven on Dobbcross looms dating back to 1929 at Prickly Thistle’s Highland mill, blending traditional techniques with bold, modern design.
  • Scottish made, end to end – From dyeing to weaving to finishing, every step takes place in Scotland.

Choosing pre-order means choosing a better future — for fashion, for craft, and for the planet.

 

Why Kilts and Scarves?

For this release, we are offering kilts and scarves only — and here’s why.

  • Scarves have been in huge demand. It’s been incredibly moving to see how many people want to wear and share this symbol of remembrance and resistance.
  • Many of you have also asked for garments that could help you make a personal statement or mark a significant moment — which is why kilts felt like the natural next step.

By keeping the range focused, we’re able to maintain our commitment to zero-waste, pre-order production — weaving only what is needed, with no surplus or shortcuts.

We fully intend to make other forms of the tartan available in future. If there’s something you’d love to see in the next release, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Join our mailing list to be the first to know when new items become available: witchesofscotland.com/join


How to Care for Your Tartan

Wool is naturally brilliant — it resists odours, stains, and doesn’t need frequent washing. Here’s how to look after your tartan:

  • Wear more, wash less – Most of the time, a gentle airing or a spot clean with a damp cloth is all you need.
  • No washing machines or tumble dryers – Wool shrinks when exposed to hot water and agitation. Hand wash gently in tepid water only if truly necessary.
  • Dry flat – Never hang wet wool. Roll it in a towel to remove excess water, then dry flat on a clean surface.
  • Store smart – If you’ve ordered a kilt, we’ll include a cedarwood hanger to deter 
  • Ironing? Rarely needed – Wool fibres are naturally springy. Wrinkles will often drop out with wear or gentle steam. If ironing is needed, always use a wool setting.


For full guidance from the mill, visit Prickly Thistle’s Fabric and Product Care Page.