To help us make our patterns the finished design was painted for us by a local artist. To hold the Guide-blue background a full sized frame was made by a craftsman. The materials were assembled and we were ready to begin - two years after the idea had been conceived.
Where possible component parts were completed before being appliquéd to the background. This enabled pieces like the Galley and the Badge to go round the Divisions to enable most units to “ put their stitch “.
Obeying the rules of Heraldry all colours had to be separated from each other by a line of gold or silver. To achieve this a small group of Guiders were taught the craft of hand knotting and they patiently knotted yard upon yard of gold and silver cord. A talented Commissioner hand-wove the silver material from which the Cross was fashioned.
Eventually everything was cut sewn and assembled and ready to remove from the frame. Well done! However since the Banner is double sided, another background had to be mounted and a mirror image was created.
The Dedication of the Argyll County Banner took place at a dignified yet moving Service in Saint John’s Cathedral, Oban, on Saturday, 8th September, 1990, followed by an afternoon of celebration for all at the Corran Halls.
Creating the Banner was a mammoth task but as with all Guide activities working on this beautiful object served to bring together many people with different skills - and, above all, it was fun !
A replica Banner Badge has been produced and is now for sale. This Badge is not to be worn on Guide Uniform but can be used on blankets and camp clothes. Click for Further information & pictures.
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