Tartan Samples

Tartan samples are a great way to help you decide which tartan you prefer. To order a tartan sample, click here.

Brief History of Clan Chattan

The Chattan clan was made up of a group of small highland families who, during the 14th century, protected themselves by banding together. Their motto is ‘Touch not the cat bot a glove’, the word ‘bot’ meaning ‘without’.

The clan’s true origins are unclear, with the first documented evidence dating back to King Malcolm 2nd's reign from 1005 to 1034. Saint Cattan’s servant called himself Gillichattan Mor, and was seen as the clan’s original chief, with holdings in Glenloy and Loch Arcaig, Lochaber, and a seat at Tor Castle.

Another theory is that the name was linked to a tribe of Gauls called the Catti, who had been expelled by the Romans. The tribe travelled across the North Sea, landing in the north of Scotland, in Caithness.

The tartan for clan Chattan is a very vibrant mix of red, blue and yellow, with white and black embellishments. The wide variety of colours here could represent the many families that made up this clan.