We were delighted to attend a special event hosted by Johnnie Walker, bringing together talented QEST Alumni to celebrate and showcase the incredible work of makers from across the UK. Among those exhibiting was our very own kiltmaking apprentice, Kayleigh.
Kayleigh is now one year into her two-year traditional kiltmaking apprenticeship with The Kiltmakery, and we couldn't be prouder of everything she has achieved. Not only did she exhibit her work alongside some of the country's finest craftspeople, but she also spent the evening speaking to guests about traditional kiltmaking, why this endangered craft is so important to preserve, and her passion for becoming a professional kiltmaker.
With more than 100 guests attending the event, it was a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of traditional hand-sewn kiltmaking and to share the story of a craft that is slowly being brought back from the brink.
Kayleigh's apprenticeship has been made possible through funding from QEST (The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust). QEST is a charity dedicated to transforming the careers of talented and aspiring makers by funding education and training, creating pathways to excellence, and strengthening the future of the UK's craft sector.
The support Kayleigh has received from QEST is helping to safeguard one of Scotland's most iconic heritage crafts. By investing in the next generation of makers, organisations like QEST are ensuring that the skills, knowledge and traditions of hand-sewn kiltmaking continue to be passed on for generations to come.
We would like to thank QEST and Johnnie Walker for hosting such an inspiring evening and for championing the UK's extraordinary craft community. It was a privilege to see Kayleigh representing traditional kiltmaking so confidently, and we look forward to watching her continue to develop into an exceptional kiltmaker.
"Being able to exhibit my work alongside so many talented makers was an incredible experience. It gave me the chance to share my passion for traditional kiltmaking and explain why preserving this craft is so important."
Kayleigh