John Christie in the Presidential chains of the National Federation of Master Painters and Decorators in Scotland (a pre-curser to the Scottish Decorators' Federation).
Posted on 1 September 2024

Painting the Queen Mary – John Christie’s lecture

If you enjoyed our feature on the painting of the Queen Mary ocean liner, here is the full transcript of John Christie’s lecture from 1936. John oversaw the decoration of the entire ship between 1935 and 1936 while he was working for Glasgow decorating firm Guthrie & Wells.

Photograph of new build property painted using Isle of Skye Paint Company products.
Posted on 4 January 2024

Meet our Members – Alasdair Campbell

In our regular feature, we find out about members of the Scottish Decorators’ Federation. This time, it’s Alasdair Campbell, from the Isle of Skye Paint Company. There are two sides to the business – decorating and paint manufacturing.

The Kirk Gallery in Orkney
Posted on 31 July 2023

Meet our Members – Clinton Findlay

In our regular feature, we find out about Members of the Scottish Decorators’ Federation. In this issue it’s Clinton Findlay, who runs the Orkney-based family business, Kenneth C Findlay & Sons, with his brother, Alton.

Jade Oakes with Justin Bailly
Posted on 27 April 2023

Purdy video series

Purdy has announced the launch of its latest Inspiring the Next Generation campaign: a series of 17 videos offering insight, advice and useful tips for anyone starting a career in the painting and decorating industry. Available across Purdy’s social media channels, the videos highlight the importance of choosing the right tools for the job to achieve the perfect finish.

Ian McAslan from Glasgow-based paint company Smith and Rodger
Posted on 19 April 2023

Scottish paint companies (part two)

Specialising in a niche product can mean a long life for a paint company. Neil Braidwood speaks to Smith & Rodger which has been going since 1877 and Mac & Brush which launched last year.