Key Takeaways
The plaid is associated with Scotland but its origin is uncertain. The inventor of the plaid is not known but this fabric dates back at least to the Middle Ages. Plaid is an integral part of Scottish culture and traditions of clans.
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Presentation of the plaid and its roots
The plaid, also called tartan, is an iconic fabric often associated with Scotland and culture of its clans. This large piece of fabric, recognizable by its checked pattern, is worn as a travel blanket or used as a end of bed . But who is at the origin of this invention which is the pride of the Scottish ? This article takes you on a journey back in time to retrace the history of the plaid and try to find its mysterious inventor.
Historical context of the plaid
The plaid has its origins in an old era. As early as Antiquity, the Celtic peoples who occupied the British Isles used coarse woolen fabrics to protect themselves from the cold. Over the centuries, these rustic blankets evolved to become the tartan we know today.
Definition of plaid
The plaid is a thick fabric, made of wool or synthetic materials, recognizable by its cotton pattern composed of intersecting lines and tiles forming colors and designs. Used as a blanket, clothing or decorative accessory, the blanket is inseparable from Scotland and its culture.
Also read: what is a throw ?
Origin of the Plaid
The precise origin of the plaid is lost in the mists of time but traces of it can be found from the Middle Ages.
Merovingian period
Texts dating from the Merovingian period (5th century) refer to striped fabrics worn by the Celts during assemblies of free men . These rustic fabrics probably constitute the beginnings of the future tartan.
Carolingian period
In the Carolingian era (8th-9th centuries), Celtic fabrics seem to be close to today's plaid. The checked pattern appears clearly. These plaids serve as clothing and blankets for the men and kings of the time.
Modern era
It was not until the 16th century that tartan acquired its letters of nobility and its definitive form in Scotland, in Great Britain.The Scottish clans then adopted the plaid as a tribal emblem, giving birth to the famous tartans of clan which make it possible to identify the identity of the different clans .
Also read: why does a blanket keep you warm ?
Plaid in Scottish Culture
The plaid quickly became a key element of culture and Scottish traditions.
Tartan and the Scottish clans
From the 16th century, each Scottish clan adopted its own tartan with specific colors used to identify its members. The plaid becomes a powerful symbol of belonging and pride for the Highlanders.
The evolution of the plaid
First of all rustic clothing, the plaid is gradually transformed into a patriotic symbol and external sign of wealth. In the 18th century, Scotland even banned the wearing of tartan, which was hastily rehabilitated after the Jacobite revolts. Today, plaid crosses borders and countries to become a timeless item in its own right.
Plaid in current fashion
Today, plaid is experiencing renewed interest. Designers are reappropriating this iconic textile in their collections, reviving traditional tartans and customized patterns. The plaid nevertheless retains its identity deeply Scottish and remains a sure value in trend and style thanks to its elegance natural and its deep colors.
Also read: what size to choose for a throw ?
Types of Plaids
There are different types of throws depending on the materials used. Here are the main ones:
Natural throws
Natural throws are made from fibers of animal origin such as wool, alpaca, cashmere or silk.
Sheep's wool is the traditional material for Scottish tartans. Among the most famous wools, we find Scottish Merino wool, particularly fine and soft. The 100% sheep's wool throws offer great softness to the touch as well as excellent protection against the cold. However, they are more difficult to maintain.
Alpaca and cashmere, noble materials from llamas and goats respectively, provide an unrivaled feeling of warmth and comfort. These high-end throws are generally more expensive.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Great softness | More delicate to maintain |
| Excellent protection against the cold | Higher price |
| Noble and natural materials |
Must read: How to clean a blanket ?
Synthetic throws
Synthetic throws are made from fibers such as acrylic or polyester.
Acrylic looks like wool but has better dimensional stability and easier maintenance. Prices are generally more affordable.
The polyester used for certain fleece blankets is a resistant and easy-care fiber but with a less soft feel to the touch. It is well suited for daily or outdoor use.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Affordable price | Less soft than natural fibers |
| Ease of maintenance | Less breathable |
| Great resistance |
Also read: what is a fleece throw ?
Mixed throws
Mixed throws combine natural and synthetic fibers to take advantage of the advantages of each material.
For example, a wool and acrylic blend will provide the softness of wool while limiting shrinkage and simplifying maintenance.
A cotton and polyester blanket will combine the natural comfort of cotton with the strength of polyester.
There are many combinations: wool and acrylic, cotton and acrylic, wool and polyester...
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Comfort of natural fibers | Loss of benefits of 100% natural fiber |
| Strength of synthetic fibers | Less noble than 100% natural |
| Affordable price | |
| Ease of maintenance |
Check out our tips and tricks: how a blanket works ?
Conclusion
The plaid has gone through the ages to become a timeless in its own right. A true madeleine of Proust, it evokes the warmth of a home, the comfort of a cozy blanket, the journeys in Scotland. The plaid is now an integral part of our heritage.
Tips for choosing a blanket
To find the ideal throw, take into account the desired use, the materials, the quality of the weaving, the patterns and of course... the favorite! Some tips for choosing your throw: choose noble materials, examine the fineness of the weave, let yourself be guided by your desires. You will inevitably find what you are looking for among the multitude of throws available.
FAQ
What is the warmest blanket ?
The throws 100% wool, particularly in merino sheep wool, offer optimal warmth.
What is the origin of the word plaid ?
The word plaid comes from the Gaelic Scottish “plàide” which designated a “piece of fabric”.
What is the difference between a blanket and a throw ?
The plaid specifically refers to a blanket with characteristic Scottish patterns. Not all blankets are throws.
What are the best throws ?
The best throws are made from noble materials (virgin wool, alpaca, cashmere, etc.) with a tight weave which guarantees their durability.
Pled or plaid ?
The correct spelling is “plaid” and not “pled” which is a common error.
What are the synonyms of plaid ?
The main synonyms for plaid are: tartan, Scottish fabric, Scottish blanket, travel blanket.
Sources
[1] Scottish Tartans Authority
Updated March 17, 2024
