One of the unexpected joys of creating handmade bags is hearing where they end up in the world. What begins as a sketch in my studio in the Scottish Borders often ends up in the most fascinating places — tucked under arms at weddings, accompanying travellers across continents, or sitting proudly in gift shops thousands of miles away.
I may design and stitch each piece here in Scotland, but Julia Cunningham Design bags truly travel far and wide.
From Scotland to a Wedding in Romania
Not long ago, I worked on a bespoke bag made in a beautiful combination of tweed and tartan for a lovely customer attending a wedding in Romania. Alongside her custom bag, she also ordered matching purses and key rings in the same bespoke tartan — thoughtful gifts to take with her. I loved knowing that my creations were part of a special celebration abroad, carrying a little bit of Scotland into the heart of Eastern Europe.
Bags That Cross Continents
I’ve also created a number of bags for a customer who splits her time between Great Britain and China — she even commissioned a gift to take back with her. Through fairs, social media, and word-of-mouth, I’ve been lucky to connect with people all around the globe. Some of my earliest international customers came from Japan, where I exhibited at the British Fair in Osaka. We’ve stayed in touch ever since, and they even made the journey to visit my studio when they were next in Scotland — a moment that meant the world to me.
Tweed from the Falklands to the Highlands
One of the more unique collaborations has been with a farm in the Falkland Islands. They send me tweed made from the wool of their own sheep, and I turn it into custom bags which are sold on the island to visitors arriving by cruise ship. It’s a beautiful example of how local and global can meet — an island’s story woven into tweed, then carried away to who-knows-where by travellers.
Where in the World Is Your Bag?
I’ve seen my bags photographed in Plockton, Rennes-le-Château in France, and even as far as Johannesburg. Many have also made their way to the USA, finding homes with customers who appreciate the craftsmanship and the story behind each design. It’s such a joy when people share photos or messages with me, showing where their bag has gone — whether it’s to a corner of rural Scotland or halfway across the globe.
It’s a reminder that something handmade can still have a very big journey.
Have you taken your Julia Cunningham Design bag on an adventure?
I'd love to see it! Share your photos or stories with me on Instagram or drop me a message — it always brings a smile to know where they’ve travelled next.
If you’ve taken your Julia Cunningham Design bag on an adventure, I’d love to hear about it!
Tag me on Instagram or send me a photo — I always smile seeing where in the world they’ve made it to.
Handmade in Scotland. Travelled by you.
Thank you for taking my bags to such inspiring places!