Last year I raised money for Secret World Wildlife Hospital with my European Hedgehog enamel pin after finding an injured hedgehog near my home. I managed to raise £200 for the hospital and this year I wanted to go bigger and thats where I am thrilled to introduce my latest product: a beautifully woven patch featuring my illustrated design of the elusive Scottish wildcat. This iron-on patch is perfect for personalising your backpacks, jackets, or any other fabric surface and 20% of all sales will go directly to conserving Scotland's wildcats.
The Scottish Wildcat: The UK's Native Cat
The Scottish wildcat is surrounded in deep folklore and often referred to as the "Highland Tiger," as this native species once roamed freely across Scotland’s rugged landscapes. Sadly, today, fewer than 300 wild individuals remain, confined to small, fragmented areas in the Scottish Highlands. These majestic cats, that look similar to yoru domestic tabby are a symbol of the wild beauty of Scotland, but they are now considered one of the most endangered animals in the UK.
The decline of the Scottish wildcat has been driven by several factors. Habitat loss, human persecution, and interbreeding with domestic cats (leading to hybridization) have drastically reduced their population. With such few purebred wildcats left, time is running out to save them.
Raising awareness about the plight of these animals is crucial if we are to prevent their extinction and in my experience not many people even know they exist. By supporting efforts to conserve the Scottish wildcat, you’re helping ensure that future generations can keep this incredible species in the wild.
Partnering with the "Saving Wildcats" Charity
I wanted to attempt to do my bit in wildcat conservation and the only way I know how is through art! So I am proud to donate 20% of the sales from each patch to the "Saving Wildcats" project. I contacted the team during the design process of my idea and they helped ensure all my wildcat packaging contained the correct information so I can help educate the public and supported my process to donate to their charity. Saving Wildcats is dedicated to reversing the decline of the Scottish wildcat population through the first UK wildcat breeding centre for release where they release wildcats into protected areas, restoring their natural habitat, and work on reducing the impact of hybridization with domestic cats.
In 2023 they released their first round of 19 cats into the Cairngorms National Park which they track with GPS radio collars which help understand their behaviour, activity and use of the habitat. Since then wild-born kittens have been born and captured on trail cameras as well as another milestone release of captive-born cats. You can read more on their progress here.
Iron-on Woven Patch: Wear Your Support
The Scottish wildcat patch is more than just a stylish accessory—it's a statement of your support for wildlife conservation and helps bring awareness to the species. Crafted from high-quality woven fabric, it captures the wildcat’s fiery personality and distinctively striped coat. The patch has a special reverse that makes it adhere to your favourite items, making it a versatile way to showcase your love for Scotland’s natural heritage. Simply place reverse down onto your item, cover with baking paper and then iron on top, then flip your garment and iron from the other side to make it secure. Whether you attach it to a backpack, a jacket, or a cap, you’ll be helping to spread awareness about the urgent need to protect the wildcat.
Here’s why I believe you’ll love this patch:
- Original Artwork: The patch features my own illustration of the Scottish wildcat, made with love and a deep appreciation for the species.
- Easy to Apply: As an iron-on patch, it’s simple to attach to your favourite accessories and clothing.
- Durable & High-Quality: Designed to last, this woven patch can withstand outdoor adventures, just like the wildcat!
- A Meaningful Purchase: 20% of every sale goes directly to Saving Wildcats, supporting real conservation efforts on the ground.
Join Us in Saving the Scottish Wildcat
Every patch purchased brings us one step closer to ensuring that these wildcats continue to roam the Highlands for years to come. Your contribution will go beyond just funding—by wearing this patch, you’ll help raise awareness for Scotland’s native cat, and encourage others to take action, too.
Let’s work together to protect one of Scotland’s most treasured species. The future of the Scottish wildcat is in our hands. Thank you for your support, and let’s save these “Highland Tigers” together!
Get your Scottish Wildcat Patch here.
Tag me in photos of your patch, where you place it and take it on adventures so we can spread the world about this amazing native animal.
