THE dancing teacakes, supersized kilts and giant haggis divided a nation.

But Glasgow 2014 opening ceremony's sentimental tribute to Scotland has helped fuel a rising trend.

Twee has exploded onto the mainstream after years of being viewed as embarrassing.

From our favourite biscuits to tartan and Scottie dogs, no longer do people want to shy away from stereotypes.

Finnieston-based designer Gillian Kyle, who specialises in printed bags, T-shirts and mugs with a quirky Scottish twist, says she has noticed a resurgence in the popularity of twee products.

Her tote bags, note books and oven gloves are emblazoned with prints of some of Scotland's favourite products, including Tunnock's Teacakes, Irn-Bru and fish and chips.

Gillian has just branched out of the UK and into Japan and South Korea, where her products now sell in around 20 shops.

And the 36-year-old says since the opening ceremony last Wednesday she's seen a 50% rise in the number of visitors to her website.

She said: "We haven't seen the sales yet but we're hoping this will translate to more sales.

"I think people just love showing their love of all things Scottish now.

"People like to show the world what they are interested in now - they like to display their love of brands like Tunnock's.

"It's also about nostalgia, it reminds people of their childhood and it unites people across the world in their love of Scottish things."

Gillian said the opening ceremony was "exactly what Glasgow is all about".

Another Scots designer Nikki McWilliams was so inspired by the humble Tunnock's Teacake that she launched a cushion business dedicated to her favourite treat.

The 29-year-old Central Scotland-based businesswoman ships her biscuit cushions all over the world - and her sales have risen by more than 100% since the opening ceremony.

She agreed that there has been a resurgence in home grown-inspired products.

She said: "The hits to our website and our sales have both more than doubled.

"Our teacakes and caramel wafers in the iconic milk chocolate colour are always really popular, but there is a lot more interest in them.

"People are embracing our heritage, not just in Scotland but everywhere in the world. We need to be proud of the things we have here."

rachel.loxton@ eveningtimes.co.uk