Colors of the Clan: The History and Science of Tartan Dyes

The Sobieski Stuarts & the Vestiarium Scoticum

In this episode of Tartan Truths, we examine the controversial 1842 tartan volume associated with the Sobieski Stuart brothers, best known as Vestiarium Scoticum. Often dismissed as a Victorian fabrication, the book nevertheless shaped how many clan tartans were recorded, reproduced and understood. We explore who the Sobieski Stuarts were, how their work was received in its own time, and why it still matters to serious tartan research today. A balanced, evidence-driven conversation about provenance, myth and the lasting impact of this volume.

The Holy Grail - Black Watch

In this episode of Tartan Truths we explore the deep influence of the Black Watch tartan — from its origins as a military uniform to its lasting legacy across Highland regiments and modern clan tartans. We also talk about the depths of Peter’s effort to find this mid-18th century piece of the most original Black Watch. Discover how this “universal” sett gave rise to some of the best-known patterns in Scotland, including Mackenzie, Gordon, Sutherland, and more. We also highlight Peter’s most recent discovery, a surprising truth about the Angus tartan — and why nearly every kilt in it might be historically wrong. Peter walks us through his examination of the 1880 Clans Originaux specimen, how photographic analysis revealed a key design error, and what this means for the future of the Angus tartan.

Colors of the Clan: The History and Science of Tartan Dyes

In this second episode of Tartan Truths, we discuss the history of tartan colors and the dyes. Peter also talks about the latest unrecorded tartan pattern that he recently examined and the “Foundling Hospital” tartan. Find Peter Macdonald Tartan Historian on Facebook Follow us on Instagram @tartantruths For information on our discussion on tartan colors and dyes [https://www.scottishtartans.co.uk/The_Use_of_Colour_in_Tartan.pdf] For information on the Foundling Hospital tartan [https://www.scottishtartans.co.uk/An-Unnamed-18th-Century-tartan-used-as-a-Foundling-Token.pdf]

Tartan Myths

In the premiere episode of Tartan Truths, renowned tartan historian and expert Peter MacDonald, sets the record straight on some of the most persistent legends surrounding Scotland’s iconic textile. Join us as we begin the journey to separate historical fact from well-worn fiction. Learn more about Peter MacDonald [https://www.scottishtartans.co.uk] Follow Peter MacDonald on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/p/Peter-MacDonald-Tartan-Historian-100057191569943/]