Harris Tweed adopts additive to avert looming crisis

Protected by law, Harris Tweed can only be handwoven in the homes of weavers across the Outer Hebrides using traditional looms. But replacing parts on the loom can be difficult, with weavers waiting up to six months for niche components and sometimes resorting to loom modifications to keep their machines running.

In search of a solution, The Harris Tweed Loom Spares Co. has partnered with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) to create a new loom assembly design that incorporates 3D-printed parts. Since each loom has been individually modified over time, developing universal components is a challenge. According to the partners, the ultimate goal of the projects is to create adaptable parts that can be easily fitted while retaining the traditional weaving process. 

“When a vital part of the loom breaks, it can halt production for weeks, which is incredibly frustrating,” said John Bennie, a Harris Tweed weaver.