DRAPE it, hang it, use it as an extra blanket. Whatever your choice,
don't overlook the newest interior accessory, the 'throw'.
Some may turn up their noses and ask why all the fuss about something
the Scots have had around for years under the guise of lap rugs or
blankets. The point is, now they are in fashion - and they are in the
shops in abundance.
'Throw' is an American word that has drifted across the Atlantic with
the recent influx of Jacquard woven cotton rugs or shawls. Fringed,
lightweight and very colourful, they incorporate a whole range of folk
art designs - and not just those drawn from the Pennsylvania Dutch.
Some are deep blue with sun and star motifs, others more prosaic with
flowers and fruit. If you are in the States you will find them at every
tourist outpost - often woven with pictures of eagles, the Statue of
Liberty or even the first flag of the American colonies. These designs
obviously only cross the Atlantic in a suitcase - the ones available in
the UK have a more universal appeal.
Top quality throws made by The Rug Barn are generally sold in two
sizes and two or three colourways: Liberty's sell them as covers for
single beds, with the 46in x 67in size in three colourways coming in at
about #60. These cotton rugs or throws are machine washable. Other shops
might offer a cheaper version of these woven coverlets - but made in
India. Designs may be similar but the quality is not the same.
The American throws are in marked contrast to the ambience once
generated by the fringed Paisley shawl draped over the baby grand piano.
However, if you want a throw that is Scottish made, then think about
buying one from a Scottish weaver.
*Veronica Tognieri, a graduate of Glasgow School of Art, has been
weaving throws and rugs for 30 years. She draws her inspiration from the
colours of the Highland landscape, producing throws with different hues
of green and yellow, or the bluey purples of heather.
''They are good for putting over a chair or sofa or even in a car,''
she says. Veronica's throws come in two sizes, 54in x 72in and 54in
square and she also makes a smaller knee rug measuring 54in x 36in.
Made entirely of Scottish wool and hand woven in a distinctive rib
weave, they are finished with hand-knotted fringe. They are available
either from the maker or from Simply Scotland in Kingussie or Lynda
Usher Knitwear in Invermoriston.
*Claridge Mills in Selkirk, well known for their luxury cloth produced
for the international fashion industry, also make throws or blankets
with a Scottish theme.
Claridge commissioned Scottish artist Jane Hyslop to design a throw
depicting typical scenes and elements from the Scottish Borders
landscape and the setting of the Company's spinning and weaving mills.
Woven on a Jacquard loom in 100 per cent soft lambswool, the Claridge
Scottish Scene blanket is just one of several designs offered by the
mill.
Designer Frances Teckkam has also produced a new collection of
blankets made of 100 per cent cashmere, lambswool and Geelong lambswool
for Claridge Mills including a scene depicting fly fishing for salmon.
In addition, the mill makes lighter weight blankets with their
interpretations of Madras checks, Glen checks and tartans.
*Veronica Tognieri, Cantraybruich Cottage, Culloden Moor, Inverness
IV1 2EG (0463 792023).
*Claridge Mills Ltd, Riverside, Selkirk TD7 5DU (0750 20300).
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