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A group of people curling with brushes on a frozen loch, with snowy hills in the background.
Materials

Scottish stone makes a clean sweep for Olympic Curling

Tuesday 10 February 2026

There is only one quarry in the world that makes all the curling stones used in the Winter Olympics, and it's in Scotland. Discover the history of curling and the mighty Scottish stone that's one of the stars of the sport.

A complex of historic stone castle buildings in excellent condition, with slate roofs and sash and case windows. They are nestled within a rocky crag.
Science

Using science to understand an archaeological object: the Dumbarton Cross Pendant

Wednesday 9 July 2025

When we used scientific techniques on a small cross found at Dumbarton Castle, we discovered the cross might not be as old as we thought. Find out how we're using science to learn about archaeological objects and how, sometimes, we're left with more questions than answers.

A small round camera the size of an orange sitting on top of a very tall tripod, surrounded by the low walls of a historic site.
Digital

Capturing Scotland’s Heritage in 3D: the Fascinating Skills of Digital Documentation

Wednesday 22 May 2024

Digital Innovation Trainee Yueqian Wang shares key cutting-edge concepts used by the Digital Documentation team to digitally capture our heritage.

Image is a pencil drawing from 1880, featuring a section of Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh. The drawing shows a small section of rock garden with a waterfall in the centre. The entire garden is enclosed in a spherical glass and girder dome.
Heritage

Five lesser-known Scottish buildings that were never built

Friday 6 October 2023

Have you heard of the Scottish buildings that were never built? Would you like to see some alternative visions for...

Two historic stained glass windows, depicting different scenes with people
Behind the Scenes

How to use archives and collections to discover more about Scotland’s buildings

Tuesday 10 January 2023

Have you been itching to start a project around the house? The New Year is a great time to set goals and begin planning for those home improvements. Discover how archives can give you tips, inspiration and help you learn more about the history of buildings in Scotland.

A white stone cottage with a corrugated iron roof, in a countryside setting with hills in the background
Materials

Binding with earth: what we know about earth mortars in Scotland

Monday 5 December 2022

Building with earth mortar is a tradition that's over 5,000 years old. So why do we know so little about this material, and how to use it, today? Traditional Skills and Materials Project Manager, Graham Briggs, is here to help you find out more.

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Thank you

The Engine Shed is accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and National Open College Network (NOCN). The Engine Shed was supported by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to share knowledge of traditional building materials, develop skills and raise standards in conservation for traditional buildings.

  • Heritage Lottery Fund

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Part of Historic Environment Scotland

Historic Environment Scotland is the lead public body established to investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment.

© Historic Environment Scotland - Scottish Charity No. SC045925