Harris tweed is a tweed cloth that is handwoven by islanders at their homes in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, finished in the Outer Hebrides, and made from pure virgin wool dyed and spun in the Outer Hebrides. This definition, quality standards and protection of the Harris tweed name are enshrined in the Harris Tweed Act 1993.
Harris tweed, herringbone pattern
Harris tweed weaver, c. 1960
The lichen Parmelia saxatilis, a lichen known as "crottle", gave a deep red colour and distinctive scent to older Harris tweed fabrics.
A crofting village on the Isle of Lewis
Tweed is a rough, woollen fabric, of a soft, open, flexible texture, resembling cheviot or homespun, but more closely woven. It is usually woven with a plain weave, twill or herringbone structure. Colour effects in the yarn may be obtained by mixing dyed wool before it is spun.
Harris Tweed woven in a herringbone twill pattern, mid-20th century
Tweed making at the Leach family woollen mill at Mochdre, Powys, Wales, 1940
Bike in Tweed, Stockholm 2013
Logo of the Harris Tweed authority