Sma' Shot Cottages

Paisley

In the Paisley weaving industry, a "sma' shot" refers to a fine weft yarn used in the weaving of Paisley shawls. This yarn was woven into the shawls but was invisible to the naked eye of the customer. The weavers were originally not paid for stitching the sma' shot, which led to a significant dispute between the weavers and the manufacturers.

The weavers fought for recognition and payment for this work, and in 1856, they achieved a victory when an agreement was reached to pay for the sma' shot. This historic event is celebrated annually in Paisley with Sma' Shot Day, a day of parades and festivities.