Otter
The Small Isle Stitchers live across Eigg, Rum and Canna and the mainland in a beautifully scenic part of the Highlands and Islands. They were tasked with bringing a new watery friend to life.
This is their story.
The Small Isles lie off the west coast of Scotland, south of Skye and north of Mull and Ardnamurchan. The four main islands are Canna, Rum, Eigg and Muck however there are many even smaller islands dotted around these.
Each island has a view of another, except on a misty day when visibility is low and each island seems to be out on its own.
Our panel includes lots of local wildlife particularly seabirds which nest and return to designated protected areas around the small isles. The flora and fauna of the area is also represented in our stones.
All of our journey stones surround the central image of our inquisitive otter who is happily swimming in the current. We used different stitching techniques and layered colours and materials to give the otter movement.
Otter-ly beautiful panel!Image provided by Sophie Gartshore
The iconic Highland cow with fluffy fringe.Image provided by The Small Isle Stitchers
Detail of the texture within our panel.Image provided by The Small Isle Stitchers
WITH THANKS TO THE SMALL ISLE STITCHERS
This panel was stitched by Buffy, Sareth, Hilda, Jackie and Aileen who gave their time, skill and energy to completing a fantastic artwork for their area.
If you would like to see the panel up close and admire the detail of their work, please look out for the panel at an exhibition near you soon. To find out more, follow Inverness Castle Experience on Facebook for all the latest updates on the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands and the new visitor experience in Inverness, open 2025.
