Weaving and stall to help publish book

AN accidental author is hosting a jute weaving session as part of a fundraising drive to publish her book on Dundee’s textile heritage. Alison Carrie has spent three years researching and writing If These Wa’s Cuid Talk, a book detailing the history and current use of each jute mill still standing today.

The 34-year-old, who lives in Perth, started the research as a hobby to keep her busy between jobs — but the project “snowballed”.

Alison is now aiming to raise £5,000 to cover the printing and publishing costs of 1,000 copies of the book.

In November, she will host a “live” weaving session at the Overgate, accompanied by a stand selling handmade jute goods.

Alison said: “I didn’t set out to write a book. I was between jobs and wanted a wee project to keep my mind busy.

“I’ve always liked old buildings and industrial things, but knew nothing about the jute industry. I am not a Dundonian, so have had to do a lot of homework. A friend, who writes about the English mills, suggested my research would make a great book, and it has just snowballed from there.

“Not only did I have to learn about the industry, but I had to study architectural features and geographical factors, the impact of both the arrival and demise of jute, and what the buildings and the city have done since.

“So, my book will bring the city’s history ‘full circle’ to the present day.”