Local Craft Group Brings Colour to Historic Borders Mansion
A historic mansion in the Scottish Borders is set to be enlivened with vibrant colours through the efforts of a local craft group.
The Borders Modern Quilt Guild (BMQG) is marking its 10th anniversary by holding its inaugural public exhibition at Haining House.
The exhibition will display over 150 quilts and quilted items, highlighting the "stunning interior" of the building located near Selkirk.
Exhibition Details and Venue Background
BMQG convener Sandra Miller explained the plans for the exhibition:
"They'll be draped from the grand staircase, and we'll be filling the beautifully refurbished rooms with quilts - and then some more quilts."
Haining House was bequeathed to the Haining Charitable Trust (HCT) in 2009 by the late Andrew Nimmo-Smith.
Due to concerns over potential collapse caused by dry rot, renovation work on the category A-listed Palladian Georgian villa—originally built in 1794 and subsequently remodelled—was expedited.
This year, the house reopened as an events venue, hosting weddings, conferences, and both private and community gatherings.
Origins and Mission of the Borders Modern Quilt Guild
The BMQG was established in 2016 by Jane Rae and Lesley Maw to honour the region's rich textile heritage through a "modern quilt group that embraced new approaches to quilting."
The group’s core principles include "fostering creativity and friendship, encouraging lifelong learning, exchanging skills and stories, and promoting wellbeing through the act of making."
Reflections from Founders and Members
Jane Rae reflected on the significance of holding a modern quilting event in an 18th-century manor house:
"We've been quilting in the UK for hundreds of years, and there's a sense of continuity in holding this modern quilting event in an 18th Century manor house.
We're a modern group, but we're never too far from our traditional roots."
She also shared her personal experience with the organisation:
"I'm drawn to every aspect of quilting - its history, heritage, making, and the people involved," Jane said.
"Starting BMQG has been incredibly rewarding, and I'm proud of the supportive community we've built.
Stitching with friends is one of life's joys and a welcome retreat from the busyness of everyday life."
Joan McKay, a member of the group, echoed this sentiment:
"Being part of a supportive group has helped me learn new skills and try projects beyond my comfort zone," she said.
"Add exhibitions, coffee and cake, lively chat and laughter - it has enriched my life."
Support from the Haining Charitable Trust
The Haining Trust expressed enthusiasm about hosting the exhibition.
A spokesperson stated:
"As a historic house rooted in the community, it's especially meaningful to host an exhibition that celebrates heritage crafts and creative traditions.
The Haining provides the perfect setting for quilts to be experienced in a place where history, craftsmanship, and community come together."
Exhibition Dates
The exhibition, titled Quilts 2026, will take place on 24 and 25 April.
