Found on the banks of the River Tweed, the town Peebles is home to Scotland's centuries-old textile industry. With roots running all the way back to 1666, tweed mill Robert Noble has been manufacturing in the city since 1884. Known for creating traditional fabrics that tell the story of Scotland, Robert Noble has sadly announced it will cease operations this year. But not before artist Liam Dickson goes inside the mill and tells the story of the people and machines.
When the mill debuted, it employed more than 700 people: now, that number is just 87. But each and every member of the team is highly skilled; made up of designers, weavers, tuners, finishers, darners, drawers and warpers.
Robert Noble have remained committed to innovation since their debut and always used the very latest technology and modern looms to produce high quality materials.
They supply fabrics to global brands reaching US, Japan, UK and Europe with a portfolio that includes Ralph Lauren, Hackett, Paul Smith, Duchamp, House of Bruar, Mackintosh, Takisada, Paul Stuart, Charles Tyrwitt, J. Crew and Brooks Brothers.
In addition, environmental sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint has formed an intrinsic part of the mill; taking steps to reduce the amount of electricity consumed and improving the recycling of yarn. Even the mill grounds are used as a garden where employees are encouraged to grow fresh produce and flowers.
The purpose of Dickson's short film is to highlight the textile trade as one that is - with much sweat and tears - chosen by people who are passionate about fabric and local manufacturing.
