TARTAN - Clare Campbell of Prickly Thistle: From Accountancy to Artisan – Incredible revival of Scottish Heritage Through Tartan and Century-Old Looms

Clare Campbell, a trailblazing Highlander renowned for her innovation in the weaving and designer clothes industry, is driven by a deep passion for authenticity and identity. Clare's remarkable journey began in 1978, when she was born in Inverness, the Highland capital of Scotland. With two younger brothers, Clare drew inspiration from her mother, who has always been a guiding light in her life.

Like many, Clare's family faced heartbreak, losing her brother Paul just before Christmas in 1998 at the age of 19. This profound loss reshaped Clare's outlook on life, instilling in her and her family a renewed appreciation for its fragility and value.

In the years that followed, Clare married her childhood sweetheart Allan, became a mother to Paul and Charli, and pursued a career as an accountant. While raising her young family and supporting Highland businesses, Clare's entrepreneurial spirit grew. By late 2015, she discovered her true calling: uniting her love for the Highlands, her creative vision, and her dedication to craftsmanship into a pioneering mission: The pursuit of sustainable excellence with Tartan cloth woven, not on modern machines, but on original century old looms.

Clare's journey as an industry leader was clear, despite the challenges she anticipated. Determined to revive the art of storytelling through tartan design, she set out to restore artisan weaving skills and introduce disruptive designer collections to the Highlands. As the founder and owner of Prickly Thistle, and the outlet store called Rebel Row in Inverness, Clare has established a brand synonymous with Scottish heritage, creativity and endurance. And this Brand has been discovered by the likes of Fendi, the historic Italian luxury fashion house with a number of famous names buying into the product including Sam Heughan or Jamie Fraser of Outlander.

Clare Campbell's pioneering story in weaving and designer clothing is extraordinary and it is with pleasure that Unique Scotland Podcast brings Clare's incredible story (and lovely Inverness accent) to you wherever you listen.