Our Values

Crafting Beauty Responsibly

At Mothy and the Squid, every skein tells a story, not just of colour and creativity, but of care for our planet and community. As a small Scottish micro-business based in Kirkintilloch, we're committed to sustainable practices that honour both the craft of hand-dyeing and the world we live in.

Ethically Sourced Yarn

Our yarn is ethically sourced from non-mulesing flocks in South America. The nylon present in some bases is manufactured in Germany to EU safety and environmental standards. The mill that processes our yarn has EU Flower and OEKO-TEX 100 accreditations and runs a state-of-the-art effluent treatment plant. Recent studies have shown that the type of superwash wool we use biodegrades very quickly in composting and marine environments leaving no residues. These high standards are not universal but are part of our thoughtful ethos.

Water Conservation in Our Dyeing Process

Hand-dyeing yarn is a water-intensive process, but we've developed a system that minimises our environmental impact. We carefully reuse water throughout our dyeing process, ensuring that every drop counts. Our small-batch approach means we only dye what we need, eliminating the industrial waste associated with mass production. Each skein is dyed with intention, using techniques that reduce dye waste whilst creating the rich, vibrant colours you love.

Scottish Roots, Local Impact

Being a micro-business in Scotland means we're part of a proud tradition of textile craftsmanship. By keeping our production local in Kirkintilloch, we support our local economy. We're passionate about keeping traditional craft skills alive whilst embracing sustainable innovation.

Quality Over Quantity

In a world of fast fashion, we choose a different path. Our 75% superwash merino and 25% nylon blend isn't just beautiful, it's built to last. The superwash treatment ensures durability, whilst the nylon adds strength for projects that will be loved and worn for years to come. We believe in creating pieces you'll cherish, not discard. Every hand-dyed skein is an investment in quality, encouraging you to slow down and savour the making process.

Our Ongoing Commitment

We're always looking for ways to reduce our environmental footprint further and we remain committed to sustainable practices, transparent processes, and the belief that beautiful yarn and responsible business go hand in hand. Thank you for supporting small-scale, sustainable yarn dyeing. Together, we're creating something beautiful - one skein at a time.