By law, Harris Tweed can only be handwoven in the homes of weavers across the Outer Hebrides, preserving a craft passed down through generations.
However, the complex design of the looms means that replacement components can take up to six months to source. This often forces weavers to borrow parts from fellow artisans or modify their looms themselves to keep them running.
In response, The Harris Tweed Loom Spares Co. partnered with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), operated by the University of Strathclyde and part of the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult, to create a new loom assembly design. To improve accessibility, this design incorporated 3D-printed parts.
Read the full article in DPA's August 2025 issue