The Cabrach Tapestry – A Stitch In Time

Join the Cabrach Tapestry Project: Stitching the Heritage of Whisky Making

Do you have a passion for stitching or simply love learning about history? Here’s your chance to be part of something truly special—a community project that celebrates the rich, storied heritage of whisky making in the Cabrach!

A Rich History of Distilling in the Cabrach

The Cabrach, nestled in the Highlands of Scotland, has a fascinating past steeped in the craft of whisky distilling. Going back to the 1700s, the Cabrach was known as a hotspot for illicit distilling. The hillsides, hidden from prying eyes, were home to secret stills, where enterprising distillers and smugglers produced whisky under the cover of darkness. The spirit crafted here was highly sought after, and the region earned a reputation for quality that still endures today.

However, the industry changed dramatically after the 1823 Excise Act, which legalised small-scale distilling. While this opened new opportunities for legal distillers, it also spelled the end of the illegal distillers’ way of life, forcing many to leave the Cabrach in search of other work.

But today, the Cabrach’s whisky legacy is being revived with the opening of the Cabrach Distillery, a community-owned initiative aimed at regenerating the area and bringing its heritage to life once more.

The Cabrach Tapestry Project: A Stitch in Time

To celebrate the history, present, and future of whisky distilling in the Cabrach, we are excited to invite YOU to join the Cabrach Tapestry Project, the next generation of Cabrach Lives Project. This collaborative art project will interpret the rich whisky history of the Cabrach through beautiful, hand-stitched panels, each representing a unique aspect of the Cabrach’s story.

Whether you’re an experienced stitcher or a complete beginner, this project is open to all who have an interest in learning and contributing. You don’t need to be a professional—just bring your passion and enthusiasm!

What to Expect

Under the expert guidance of Susie Finlayson, a skilled embroiderer with a wealth of experience—including work on the Great Tapestry of Scotland and the Galashiels Interchange Project—you’ll learn how to create your own panel for the tapestry. Susie, who has a personal connection to the Cabrach and has previously held workshops as part of the Rural Skills Programme, will lead the group through the entire process.

Participants will be immersed in the history of illicit distilling through talks from experts like Professor Peter Reid, who will delve into the fascinating stories of the Cabrach’s whisky past. Plus, you’ll work with an illustrator to design the panels, ensuring that each piece of the tapestry is uniquely connected to the Cabrach’s whisky-making heritage.

Once complete, the panels will be displayed at the Cabrach Distillery Heritage Centre, where they will serve as a lasting tribute to the area’s rich distilling history. They’ll also be featured at exhibitions, bringing the story of the Cabrach’s whisky to a wider audience.

How You Can Get Involved

The project will kick off in February, with workshops and design sessions held regularly. It’s a great chance to learn new skills, meet new people, and make a meaningful contribution to preserving and celebrating the heritage of the Cabrach.

To get started, join us for an initial meeting on Thursday, February 20th at 6pm. This is where we’ll introduce the project in full, discuss what’s involved, and give you all the details on how you can participate.

Spaces for this exciting project are limited, so be sure to book your spot for the meeting soon!

Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of something truly meaningful. Let’s come together to stitch the heritage of the Cabrach into the future!

We can’t wait to see you there and work with you on this exciting, creative journey. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us—we’re happy to help.