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Craft Scholarship

Unique learning

The Evelyn Baxter programme

A photo of 3 women, one of them is standing up and instructing the other two who are sitting down. The women sitting down are holding craft materials including string and scissors.

Devised by, and named in honour of Evelyn Baxter, a prominent SWI member and advocate for craftsmanship, the Evelyn Baxter Scholarship Programme promotes traditional crafts and skills among women across Scotland, helping to preserve our nation’s cultural heritage.

Each year, two or more ‘scholars’ receive expert tuition in crafting techniques as part of the programme. These scholars then pass their knowledge to SWI members and communities throughout Scotland. The aim is to ensure that traditional and contemporary crafts are kept alive, appreciated, and integrated into community activities.

Through this process, the Evelyn Baxter Scholarship Programme reflects the broader SWI mission to empower women, foster community spirit, and preserve Scotland’s cultural traditions through practical skills, making a lasting impact on Scottish rural and urban communities alike.

I’d like to become a scholar

This year’s scholars

SWI Evelyn Baxter Scholar Sharon Murdoch

SWI Evelyn Baxter Scholar Hazel Lawson

SWI Evelyn Baxter Scholar Caitlin Davidson

SWI Evelyn Baxter Scholar Pam Goodwin

A black and white photo of Dr Evelyn Baxter, she is sitting in front of an easel with a bucket of paint in front of her.

About Evelyn

Dr. Evelyn V. Baxter
(1879–1959)

“Miss Evie” was a prominent leader within Scottish Women’s Institutes, renowned for her expertise in handicrafts and her dedication to skill-sharing. She often taught, judged, and lectured at SWI events, inspiring a culture of community engagement and practical learning. Her passion for traditional crafts laid the groundwork for the Evelyn Baxter Programme, established in 1961, which continues to support Scottish crafters and ensures Scotland’s craft heritage remains vibrant.

Evelyn was a remarkable and busy woman. Alongside her craft interests, she founded the Fife Federation of SWI, serving multiple terms as Chair, organising events, demonstrations, and exhibitions at her home in Upper Largo.

She also served as a Justice of the Peace in Fife and was active in the local Sunday School. Her close friendship with Leonara J. Rintoul (1875–1953), her lifelong companion and fellow ornithologist, deeply influenced her pursuits. Together, they became authorities on Scottish birdlife, co-authors of The Birds of Scotland, and founders of the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club.

“Her integrity would never allow her to condone inferior work, but her humour and understanding enabled her criticisms to be constructive, kind and welcomed.”

Taken from the Scottish Ornithologist’s Club’s Journal, 1960.