Traditional quality craftsmanship from Johnstons of Elgin’s Wool Blanket, a 200-year-old plus purveyor of Scottish luxury.
A walk in West Sussex by the Sea
Recently Gentlemans Butler had the splendid opportunity to venture to the South coast to Chidham, within The Chichester Harbour area of outstanding beauty located in West Sussex and Hampshire on the South Coast. Known for unspoilt coastal landscape, it is a haven for local wildlife and very popular for walking, sailing and boating activities, so in our view a perfect location that espouses the values, thinking, designs and traditions that Johnstons of Elgin has perfected for over 200 years.
The skies stayed unusually clear with sunshine at the ready we ventured for a lovely springtime wander of about 7 miles, with a picnic in the middle.
Looking for the perfect spot to lay out our gorgeous woollen blanket and tea goodies we came up trumps with a natural snug nestled between fields and trees on one side and the ocean on the other.
The wellbeing of walking by the sea
Having partook in our tea we stretched out on soft comfort and then one of my favourite moments was laying back, looking at the blue skies and trees above, just let go, and that’s in many ways what luxury design and quality gives which is a sensual aesthetic pleasure, and with the global issues of the past year it seems many are discovering again some of the simple but quality pleasures of life.
Johnstons of Elgin
To fully appreciate the beauty of this blanket one must know about the history of this Scottish company. Johnstons of Elgin, located in Elgin, Scotland has been producing cashmere garments from the original mill of 1797. Early on it produced linen, flax, oatmeal and tobacco. Over time its founder, Alexander Johnston, introduced textiles and eventually the other products were phased out.
The company states:
“There are in the region of 30 different processes involved in transforming raw fibre into luxurious Johnstons of Elgin finished products. Our cashmere, merino, lambswool and vicuña production is the work of artisans based on centuries of innovation.
Our expert craftsmen take pride in every thread, every twist, every yarn and every stitch, from raw fibre in the wool store to perfected garment on the showroom floor. From dyeing to blending, carding to spinning, warping to weaving, knitting to teaseling and cutting to folding – it all happens in our Johnstons of Elgin in the heart of Scotland.”
Gentlemans Butler’s blanket was the Double Face Check Lambswool Throw called Dunoon. This lovely blanket has subtle colours and is 100% lambswool which is naturally hypoallergenic and retains warmth for a perfectly soft and practical accompaniment to wrap up in or picnic on. It arrived promptly and carefully packaged.
Luxury blanket
When purchasing one of these beautiful blankets or throws, be advised of their care. Johnstons recommends dry-cleaning to help maintain colour, shape and size. Only occasional cleaning is needed and if spot cleaning, use a gentle cashmere/wool shampoo. To store, use cedar wood balls (purchased on the website) which provide a natural repellent for moths and insects that might damage your blanket. Place these along with the blanket in a drawer or storage box. Johnston’s states that if you do find a moth-sized hole, they offer a repair service. Contact [email protected] for further information.
Johnstons of Elgin lambswool throw was the perfectly soft, luxurious addition to a lovely day at the coast. Gentlemans Butler thoroughly enjoyed the experience of golden sunshine, delicious food and delightful company on this splendid classic picnic throw.
