The pattern of this Thatching Hat echoes the netting cast over the Hebridean thatched cottages to keep them safe from the harsh Atlantic storms.

We originally took on Lamraig cottage as a ruin back in 2001, when it was just standing walls and a dirt floor. After 18 months of self-build, we finally moved in and spent the following 10 years bringing up our young family. It was small but cosy and in the storms we fared pretty well. The rafters creaked like a boat above a force 9 but other than that we would sleep through most howling gales.

Every 4-5 years we need to re-thatch Lamraig with marram grass from the west side of Berneray. Once the thatching is complete, chicken wire is placed over the thatch and secured by stones. This type of thatch is unique to the Outer Hebrides and with only around 15 cottages remaining, it is very important that we maintain Lamraig cottage and the knowledge of marram thatching skills.