Since its founding in the early 19th century, Johnstons of Elgin has embodied the excellence of Scottish spinning. Established in the historic city of Elgin, in the north of Scotland, this family business has managed to preserve and perpetuate ancestral know-how while rising to the ranks of the biggest names in luxury worldwide.
History and Heritage
The history of Johnstons of Elgin dates back to 1797, when the Johnston family settled in the Elgin region, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and crystal-clear water, ideal for wool processing. The Johnstons quickly entered the textile industry, laying the foundations for a company that would become a benchmark in the field.
Unrivalled Expertise
Johnstons of Elgin's reputation is built on its unrivalled expertise in processing wool, from raw fibre to finished product. Each step of the manufacturing process is carried out with meticulous precision and particular attention to detail, thus guaranteeing the exceptional quality of the final products. Dyeing, weaving, carding, fulling, drying, finishing…all stages of manufacturing a wool blanket are mastered by Johnstons.
Colourful blankets with remarkable nuances
The yarns are dyed in the mill, which masters all stages of manufacturing. The use of colour has always been essential, and all the nuances developed over the years contribute to making Johnstons' colour palette extraordinary. Inspired by the landscapes of Scotland, this colour palette is distinct and subtle. For each Scottish blanket, a multitude of colours is used.
People at the Heart of the Manufacturing Process
Within the mill, nearly 30 people can be involved in the making of a blanket. Each step is carefully performed by trained artisans. Johnstons places the utmost importance on the transfer of skills and knowledge. Each craft holds a know-how that must be conscientiously passed on. It is these skills that give the mill its great value.
Tradition and Innovation
Despite its respect for centuries-old traditions, Johnstons of Elgin does not hesitate to innovate to remain at the forefront of the textile industry. Through investments in research and development, the company has introduced new production techniques while preserving the authenticity and craftsmanship that make its reputation.
Commitment to Sustainability
Concerned about preserving the environment and supporting local communities, Johnstons of Elgin has committed to a sustainable approach at all levels of its activity. From the rigorous selection of raw materials to the optimisation of production processes, the company works to reduce its ecological footprint while guaranteeing fair working conditions for its employees.
Global Recognition
Over the decades, Johnstons of Elgin has won the hearts of luxury enthusiasts worldwide. Its blankets are now prized by the most demanding customers. The mill supplies the British royal family as well as customers across the globe, which testifies to the mill's international reputation.
Scottish Heritage Collection, blankets with an inimitable style
The Scottish Heritage tartan blanket collection is iconic. Made from the highest quality lamb's wool fibres, these blankets are very high-end. All blankets in this collection are reversible and feature two complementary Scottish designs. They have a traditional and elegant look that reflects the colours of the Scottish countryside.
In summary, Johnstons of Elgin perfectly embodies the alliance between tradition and modernity, craftsmanship and innovation. With its commitment to quality, sustainability, and excellence, this Scottish spinning mill continues to shine on the international stage, thus perpetuating a centuries-old heritage and preserving valuable know-how for future generations.
Johnstons has been a partner of Plaid Addict for over 10 years. We have worked together since the creation of the shop and without interruption until today. Plaid Addict customers are attached to this mill and the Scottish Heritage blanket collection.
