A group of school friends from Clydebank with additional support needs are crafting careers with a new jewellery collection.
Inspired by the bold colours of the Turkey Red textile designs dyed and printed in West Dunbartonshire as far back as the 1700s, the nine former pupils of Kilpatrick School are bringing the designs up to date with recycled and ethically sourced beads and materials.
The Peacock and Minimalist Collections will be unveiled at a special launch at Clydebank Town Hall this evening (Thursday, October 3) at 5.30pm.
As well as showcasing the latest necklaces, bracelets and earrings, the event will highlight the story of the social enterprise with the screening of the film Crafting A New Turkey Red.
The community interest company, Crafting Together, brings the young adults with learning difficulties together twice a week to develop their jewellery design and making skills in a bid to boost their chances of employment while at the same time combatting social isolation.
Danielle Hardie, 29, from Helensburgh said she enjoys working together as a team as well as the creative process of coming up with new designs.
“I love to create things that I make out of my mind,” she explained.
“I love working on patterns for necklaces and bracelets.”
The project not only benefits the young people in Scotland, it also supports family-run enterprises in Uganda and Ghana where beads are made out of recycled glass and paper.
“We’re very proud to be part of the slow fashion movement,” said Linda Murray, the Kilpatrick School teacher who taught the crafters their trade.
“Our jewellery is not just beautiful, it’s kind to both people and the environment.
“We hope people will love the colours and designs and enjoy knowing that each item creates opportunities locally and globally.”
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