Gifted – Created in Scotland by Hand returns to the National Museum of Scotland for a second year selling a wide range of crafts by over 40 of Scotland’s designer makers.

A variety of textiles are on show, including the work of Catherine Aitken, who uses reconditioned antique kilts, traditional tweeds and soft mohairs to make a range of bags and washbags which reflect a romantic vision of Scottish country life.

Andrea Williamson, a knitted textile designer based in Shetland, produces one off designs and small batches of quirky accessories.  She is inspired by everyday life and childhood and creates modern work which retains familiar characteristics.

Jewellery is equally strong, with silver married with vivid coloured elastic by Gilly Langton, quirky brooches by Ruth Gordon and silver combined with fabrics by Susan Kerr. 

Ruth Mae, who uses mainly Scottish grown hardwoods, sourced from windblown trees or sustainable sources has made a selection of wooden bowls.

For an unusual gift, there is the work of artist Jim Whitson, who worked as a blacksmith for eight years and now creates a range of garden sculptures made from lead. Glasstorm, a contemporary glass studio set up by Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns, has designed a range of glass bowls, vases and decorations especially for the exhibition.

Exhibitions officer Esther Lynn said “We have a completely new range of designers this year and an even wider choice of crafts for sale, with prices ranging from £6.50 to £350."

The exhibition is on from 24 November 2006 to 21 January 2007 in the Crafts Gallery, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh.  Open daily 10am to 5pm.  Admission free.