Roger and Andrea Holden run their woollen weaving business from Glendale on the Isle of Skye. On bicycle pedal-powered looms in sheds next to their old croft house, they weave blankets, scarves and throws, alongside tweed, which they sell as lengths and make up into garments and homeware accessories. Guided by provenance and quality, the couple is passionate about the need to preserve the knowledge and reputation associated with Scottish tweeds and garments. On their quest to build ever-more sustainable, local, circular connections in their practice, they now source, select, finish and dye wool from local Skye sheep.

What value does craft have in daily life?

I think of craft as the act of making a physical object in a skilful way. I love that making things is part of my daily life, but I don’t agree with the mystification of it. I believe creating objects is something we humans do and if necessity made us re-learn old skills we would manage that and hopefully also re-discover the joy in doing it well.  

What does Scottishness mean to you?

Being welcoming and often funny, especially in grim situations.