This essay was contributed to a book published on the occasion of 'The Cutting Edge', a major touring exhibition of contemporary Scottish craft, running at the National Museum of Scotland from 26 January until 29 April 2007, and then visiting Kilmarnock, Glasgow, and Aberdeen.

'The Cutting Edge' exhibition showcases the most innovative, challenging, and skilful craft work currently being produced in Scotland, in a wide range of media including ceramics, glass, metal, textiles, paper, leather, and baskets. The exhibition is the result of a three year partnership project involving four of Scotland's museum services who have a particular interest in supporting contemporary craft makers and exhibiting their work.

The book includes interviews, biographical details, portraits and work by all of the artists, and essays by leading international craft writers including Philippa Swann, Simon Olding, Grace Cochrane, and David Revere McFadden.