History of Harris Tweed

One of the most desirable wool textiles in the world, Harris Tweed, is produced in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland, mainly in the one island with two names - Lewis and Harris.

The story begins with pure virgin wools which are blended together to gain the advantages of their unique qualities and characteristics. Under the new Harris Tweed Act it is now possible to use wool produced anywhere in the World. The wool is then scoured prior to dyeing. The coloured and white wools are weighed in predetermined proportions and then thoroughly mixed or blended then carded. The resulting yarn has a twist imparted to it as it is spun to give it strength. 

The warp is delivered, together with yarn for the weft, to the homes of the weavers. The weavers also receive the design instructions and a pattern sample from the manufacturer.

All Harris Tweed is hand woven by the weaver at their own home.

The tweed is then returned in the 'greasy' state to the mill for finishing - that is all dirt, oil and other impurities are removed by washing. The pieces of tweed also pass through skilled hands of the darning department where any loose ends and broken threads are rectified. This is an essential quality control activity and ensures that there are no imperfections. Various finishes  can then be applied to the tweed.

After finishing, the Harris Tweed is then presented to the Harris Tweed Authority's inspectors, and if all the necessary regulations have been complied with, it is stamped with the certification mark or the "Orb Mark" as it is know throughout the world. The Orb stamp confirms the tweed meets the Standards of Harris Tweed. The stamp is supported by the issue of garment Harris Tweed labels.

Harris Tweed must be made from 100 per cent pure virgin wool, dyed, spun and finished in the Outer Hebrides and hand woven by the islanders at their own homes "in the islands of Lewis, Harris, Uist, Barra and their several purtenances".

Harris Tweed Throughout the World

Traditionally associated with sporting clothes, Harris Tweed can now be seen shaped into anything from suits, jackets and coats for men and women in both town and country styles to dresses, blousons, hats, luggage, furnishings and even slippers.

                                                      H.T.T.(Manufacturing) Ltd, Carloway Mills, Isle of Lewis, Scotland HS2 9AG
                                           Tel: +44 (0)1851 643 300   Fax: +44 (0)1851 643 400  Email:sales@harris-tweed.co.uk