Embroidered vestments with Celtic designs

My studio is 6 miles west of Inverness in the Highlands of Scotland. It is where I design and make original and unique vestments, mostly featuring Celtic designs.  Everything is individually designed in consultation with my clients.

If you plan to visit The Workshop, it is always good to make contact in advance because then I can ensure that I have things to show you.  Most of my work goes straight out to clients so usually I only have one or two of the vestments I have made for my husband on display - whatever colour is not in use for the current season.  With warning, I can bring other pieces with me for you to see up close.

If you can't manage a visit in person we can arrange a mutually convenient time to meet via Zoom.  You are welcome to phone me or email me to discuss your requirements - please phone 01463 831567 or email embroidery@angelforce.co.uk to arrange a mutually convenient time and date

Pictured right is Bishop Alan McGuckian wearing the stole, chasuble and mitre that I made for his installation as Bishop of the Diocese of Down and Connor.

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This site is all about the ecclesiastical work of textile artist Ruth Black. I hope you enjoy browsing the site and that you find it easy to navigate.

Much of my work is inspired by Scotland, its history, its fabrics and by traditional Pictish and Celtic art.   My tartan-lined and embroidered stoles have travelled to all parts of the world.

Some of my work can be seen by appointment at my studio in Inchmore. I usually aim to have a couple of stoles available for immediate purchase, but apart from those, most of what I am able to show you are things I have made for my husband so I would need to bring them out to the studio. i.e. an appointment is essential if you want to see actual examples! Everything else I have made has already gone to the client, though you may be lucky enough to catch me with work in progress.  Visitors are always welcome.

Throughout the site you can see images of things I have made over the years.  I usually have a couple of sample stoles which are available for immediate purchase, but otherwise everything is individually made to order only.  If you want any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

I always try to make things that have particular significance for the recipient, perhaps by the design or by the choice of fabric. Much of what I do incorporates tartan, but this is not essential - I am happy to work with plain fabrics and traditional damasks, silks, velvets and wools. What I don’t work with are cheap synthetic fabrics.   If you are looking for off-the-peg, bargain basement vestments, then please keep looking, but if you want something special that combines history and tradition with meticulous work to create a vestment or parament that will stand the test of time, then you have come to the right place.

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If you use Facebook then please click on the link on the right.  

If you are not a Facebook fan but still want to keep in touch, then you can subscribe to my newsfeed, but I seldom send out anything, perhaps just once a year or so. I have started a new list for this, so if you want to be included, please email me and I will add you in.  Your details will never be passed on to any other organisation.