A SHORT HISTORY OF THE SGIAN DUBH

Although the sgian dubh is now used only for ceremonial purposes, its invention dates back to a darker time in Scotland’s turbulent history. There are various theories for the origins of the name, but two are most widely accepted and both are probably true.

It’s universally accepted that sgian translates into blade or dagger. Dubh has more than one meaning however. Experts believe that it refers to the colour of the handle – black – which was traditionally made from bog oak, an extremely hard wood which comes from trees that have been buried in peat bogs and preserved from decay, allowing it to harden over time.

A second translation of dubh is ‘dark’ or ‘hidden’. Following the unsuccessful Jacobite uprising of 1745, Scots were forbidden from wearing the kilt or carrying arms (known as proscription). Almost every man, woman and child in Scotland carried a knife at this time as it was the ultimate accessory for hunting, cooking and eating. The act of proscription meant an end to this and so the sgian dubh then became popular as its size meant that it could be hidden in a secret pocket under the armpit.

When the Highlander visited a house on his travels having left all his other weapons at the front door, he didn’t leave his concealed dagger, since it was unsafe to ever be totally unarmed. This was not because he feared his host, but because of possible intrusion from outside. Accordingly, out of respect for the host, he removed the sgian dubh from concealment and placed it on view in the top of his sock, thus the reason for its placement there in modern ceremonial dress.

THE SGIAN DUBH TODAY

Kiltmakers.co.uk offer a superb range of sgian dubhs to suit every budget and occasion. We also stock sgian dubh gift sets complete with matching kilt pin and cuff links.

For something extra special though, we have a stunning collection of handmade sterling silver sgian dubhs.

These ceremonial knives are manufactured in Scotland to the highest standards, and will compliment any highland outfit. The time and effort that goes into making each knife is nothing short of amazing. Over 30 individual processes are involved for every sgian dubh, leaving the finished item a beautifully crafted and unique work of art.

Our main supplier of these wonderfully crafted knives is Celtic Art Ltd, a traditional Scottish family business established over 60 years ago. Their expertise in hand crafted Celtic products is second to none and they employ only the most skilled craftsmen.

Our top of the range sgian dubhs are made with the highest quality materials. The blade is stainless steel encased in a leather sheath and the decoration is hallmarked sterling silver. The handle is fashioned from ebony, a valuable black hard wood, and is topped with a smoky quartz stone, a semi precious gemstone.

Each hand made sgian dubh takes an average of eight hours to make, although more intricate pieces can take much longer. Needless to say the skills needed to create such stunning objects are only acquired over a long period of time. As a result very few people can make the claim to be a true Celtic craftsman. This explains why Celtic Art Ltd are extremely proud of their team.

We at kiltmakers.co.uk are confident that the quality and uniqueness of these fine sgian dubhs make a wonderful choice for that special gift.

Wearing a ladies Tartan Sash.

The manner of wearing tartan sashes has had customary significance for the last two centuries.
The wearing of a sash in any particular manner has so far no legal significance, hence the sash is worn as respect for tradition and is consistent with custom.  The different methods mentioned below are appropriate for ladies in different circumstances.

The different ways to wear a sash is based upon a careful study of old portraits, prints and traditional practice carried out by the Lord Lyon King of Arms and thus bears the authoritative approval.

Due to a new ruling by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, permission has been granted by her majesty for Members of the Scottish Country Dance Society to allow them to wear sashes on the left shoulder. This is an honour bestowed upon the Society because she is Patron.

The quaich is a marvellous symbolic gift that is given to those to whom we wish to show our love, friendship, admiration or respect. It is also a distinctively Scottish gift that is appreciated by all around the world.

The word “quaich” comes from the Gaelic word “cuach”; meaning cup. They are shallow bowls with two short handles at opposite sides. They were traditionally made of wood but other materials were used depending on availability. Other materials used were stone, horn, and as metals became more commonly used, brass, pewter and silver. In some instances the quaich was made from a combination of materials. A common marriage was carved wood inlaid with pewter or silver.

The quaich originated in the Highlands but did not become popular throughout Scotland until 1745, when the quaich travelled from the North of Scotland with the armies of Bonnie Prince Charlie. This took the quaich as far south as Edinburgh and Derby. These quaichs were said to have glass bottoms so the person sipping a dram could keep an eye on those around them. A more romantic quaich had a double glass bottom in which was kept a lock of hair so that the owner could drink from his quaich to his lady love. In 1589, King James VI of Scotland gave Anne of Denmark a quaich or “loving cup” as a wedding gift.

Although some quaichs had glass bottoms for the suspicious among us, the quaich has overwhelmingly been seen as a cup of friendship. The quaich was used for a visitors welcome or farewell dram by Clan chiefs and wealthy merchants, and the humble crofter. Today many people offer welcome toasts using the quaich but most give them as a gift to those they hold dear. They are displayed in homes all over the world and reminds everyone of friendship.

Alexander Scott founded Alex Scott in Aberdeen on 6th August 1925. Since then our shop has been proudly sourcing and producing Highland wear and all things Scottish. Proving our commitment to great customer service I’m passing on some of our extensive product knowledge in our new series of guides. Here is the fifth of my Buyer’s Guides:

Buyer’s Guide – Kilt Belts & Buckles

Kilt Belts

Kilt belts, also known as Montrose belts are specifically designed to decorate the top of the kilt in the absence of a waistcoat. The buckles are sold separately from the belts so that you can choose any buckle to match any belt.

Sizing

The kilt belts are sold in different waist sizes, each of which has a good amount of +/- adjustment. It is important that when you choose the belt you like, you also select the correct size. This sounds straightforward but there are pitfalls.

The one thing most people do when selecting a belt size is simply select the waist size that their trousers are. This however will undoubtedly result in the belt being too tight. There are two reasons for this. First of all the natural waist where the kilt is worn is usually slightly bigger than the lower waist where fashion trousers are worn. Secondly the kilt is a very thick quality garment and this adds two inches round the natural waist.

To choose the correct size of belt, we suggest you select the size 2-3 inches larger than your kilt waist size. (e.g. 32 waist = 34 belt, 29 waist = 32 belt.) If you do not know the waist size of your kilt, simply measure round your stomach and add 2-3 inches to that measurement.

New guides are added regularly. All our buyers guides are available in our Buyer’s Guide section. We strongly encourage your comments and feedback: