Traditional Scottish Crofters Outer Hebrides Woollen Blanket.

Outer Hebrides (only found and made here) homespun wool blanket, woven in two widths and hand joined. (C 1880-1920).

Wedding blankets in Scotland—particularly in the Outer Hebrides—have a long, practical, and deeply personal history. Many crofters had access to a small handloom, known as a beairt bheag, and would weave blankets using wool from their own sheep. Because the fleece was typically undyed, most of these blankets were a natural cream colour.

When a blanket was made as a gift, the weaver might introduce subtle decoration by dyeing a small amount of yarn using local plants (with indigo occasionally used if it could be sourced). This coloured yarn was usually worked into the warp as simple stripes. These stripes were often positioned along the edges, since blankets were traditionally used in box beds where only the sides were visible—unlike today, where the whole blanket is on display. The blanket would have been tucked right under the bed and pulled all the way up and over the box bed. Hence their long lengths.

Depending on the loom and the intended use, blankets were either woven as a single narrow width or made in two sections and stitched together to create a larger piece. This one is two stitched together as shown in the photos.

Given the time, effort, and skill involved, these blankets carried real significance. They were often made or commissioned as meaningful gifts and passed down through generations as treasured heirlooms.

This is an excellent original example in wonderful condition.

Measuring approximately: 340 cm long X 140 cm wide.

Worldwide delivery available, not included. Please enquire for a delivery quote before purchasing or arrange to collect from our London gallery by appointment.