Calling All Future Textile Designers!
The tartan competition is hosted by the historic Mill, celebrating our prestigious receipt of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. The winning designer will win a cash prize and have the opportunity to undertake an internship at the mill and collaborate with professional weavers to bring their design to life on our heritage looms.
Competition Details
Who Can Apply?
- Any student in the United Kingdom studying textiles.
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in textile weaving degree programmes in the United Kingdom.
Judging Criteria
- Creativity and originality in the tartan design.
- Connection to the theme and compelling storytelling.
- Feasibility for weaving and commercial use.
- Technical accuracy in pattern repeat and colour alignment.
The Prize
- The design woven into fabric by the company and officially adopted.
- Feature in the company’s tartan collection.
- Internship opportunity with the company.
- Cash prize of £1000
Competition Registration
Please complete this form to register to enter to competition.
Make sure to review the competition brief and submission guidelines before proceeding.
Deadline for entries: 10th March 2026
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Submissions
The tartan should reflect the brand’s heritage in regional textiles and its future-forward ethos. Submissions should include –
- A detailed design board (including colour palette, pattern repeat, and inspiration).
- A short description (500 words) explaining the design concept, historical influences, and how it reflects the brief.
- Technical requirements must adhere to the Scottish Register of Tartans
Terms and Conditions
Originality: All designs must be original works created specifically for this competition and not previously exhibited or submitted to another organisation.
Rights: Coldharbour Mill will retain copyright of the winner’s work and reserve the right to use images of all designers submissions for promotional purposes.
Exhibition: Coldharbour Mill will determine the display method for selected artworks. Installation will be handled by the organisations staff; artists are not required to be present.
Delivery and Collection: Selected designers are responsible for delivering and collecting their artworks. Detailed instructions will be provided upon acceptance.
Liability and Insurance: Coldharbour Mill will insure artworks up to a value of £1,000 during the exhibition. Designers are responsible for insuring their work during transit.
Withdrawal: Designers wishing to withdraw must notify the organisation in writing.
Publicity: Coldharbour Mill will promote the exhibition designs through various channels.
By participating, students confirm they have read and agree to these terms and condition
