At the conclusion of their visit to the University's School of Textiles and Design, at the High Mill, Scottish Borders Campus, the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay were presented with gifts designed and produced by students, as well as an additional gift for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's baby when it arrives.
His Royal Highness received a framed sketch of wild birds drawn by 22 year old Rose Thomasson, from Edinburgh, while the Her Royal Highness was given a printed silk georgette scarf in greys and ochres produced by 21 year old Lesley Marr, from Blackburn in West Lothian. Both are Design for Textiles students.
A specially designed blanket was the gift for the Royal baby, due in July. Made from 100% locally produced cashmere, from Johnston's of Elgin, it is printed with a design featuring elements from the university's crest, an oak tree, symbolising knowledge and growth, a book, symbolic of education, and a star. It also represents local Borders textile and agricultural history.
It was produced by lecturer Emily Quinn, who, along with her partner Jason Lee, specialises in silkscreen hand printing on fully fashioned cashmere garments. The process does not compromise the softness of the fabric and, more importantly for a baby blanket, it is fully washable!