Tartan

Tartan is a pattern of interlocking horizontal and vertical stripes in multiple colors, woven in a specific sequence called a sett that traditionally identified Scottish clan affiliations. The earliest known tartan fragment dates to the third century, though the clan-specific system was largely codified in the nineteenth century. Each tartan is defined by its unique thread count and color arrangement, giving it a precise, heraldic quality distinct from generic plaid. In interiors, tartan carries a strong sense of heritage, warmth, and structured elegance that enriches traditional, country, and library-style spaces. The pattern's complexity of overlapping colors creates visual depth that simpler patterns cannot achieve. Modern designers use tartan strategically as an accent to bring warmth and gravitas to spaces, with darker tartans like Black Watch lending sophistication and brighter Royal Stewart varieties adding vibrant energy.