Gaelic crafts incorporate clan crests into their designs. Clan crests are symbols unique to individual families. Their designs and heraldry trace back to the medieval age when wearing "arms" or a certain kind of crest was a means of identification. The symbols on a clan crest could be almost anything -- animal or person, real or imaginary -- accompanied by a motto. Many kinds of Gaelic crafts that featured textiles or embroidery would also use these symbols and the clan motto as decoration.
The kilt is the most recognizable Gaelic craft. Historically, kilts were made from wool but modern tartan ribbon is also available in silk. Tartans come in many varieties and are used to make more than just kilts. Aside from the family tartans, there are also military tartans, district tartans, universal tartans that can be worn by anyone and even very restricted designs that only members of the Royal family can wear.
Wool forms the basis of most Gaelic crafts. The environment and geography of the countrysides of Ireland and Scotland are ideal for grazing sheep. Present day Gaelic festivals like Feis Cothlam celebrate the importance of wool as a staple of Gaelic crafts. Traditional methods of weaving, carding, dyeing and spinning are preserved and passed on. Traditional Gaelic working songs known as "waulking" songs are traditionally sung when preparing tweed to be spun into cloth.
Crafts don't always refer to textiles or sewing. Metalworking is also an important craft in Gaelic culture. The blacksmith was held in high regard in Gaelic society. His work was so important he was often a guest of lords and kings. Iron was used to make the tools that made everyday life possible. Also included in this class of honored tradespeople were gold, silver and bronze smiths, whose work was more ornamental than utilitarian.