Tartans are officially recorded in the Scottish Register of Tartans, which is the recognized national database for tartan designs. This registry documents each tartan’s sett, colors, and background information to ensure it is uniquely identified and preserved. Individuals, families, organizations, and companies can submit new tartans for registration, typically including details about the design and its intended use. Once recorded, the tartan becomes part of a public archive that maintains its identity and makes it searchable.