Meet Julia Cunningham Handmade Scottish Bags & Accessories Since 2006
For more than two decades, I’ve been designing and hand‑making Scottish Tweed and tartan handbags, bespoke Scottish Gifts and accessories for people who want something meaningful — pieces that feel personal, beautifully made and rooted in the textile heritage of Scotland. I began sewing as a child, trained as a Home Economist, and launched my business in 2006, carrying forward the skills passed down from my mum and granny. Every item is made by me, in my garden studio in St Boswells, using fabrics sourced from Scottish weaving mills and British textile designers I know and trust.
From St Boswells to Japan | A Scottish Maker with a Global Following
My work has been recognised internationally, including invitation to the Hankyu British Fairs in Osaka and Hakata, where I demonstrated my craft and was filmed for commercial for Japanese audiences. Today, my bags are carried by customers across Scotland, Europe, the USA and Japan — many of whom visit my studio to choose fabrics and co‑create a bespoke piece that tells their story.
Scottish Textiles at the Heart of My Work| and Why That Matters
I specialise in Scottish Borders tweeds and tartans, working with mills such as Lochcarron, and Lovat Tweed. I also work with Harris Tweed mills, Linton Tweeds, Marton Mills and Bute Fabrics. Sustainability is central to my practice: I often use surplus or end‑of‑line fabrics that would otherwise be discarded, transforming them into practical, joyful designs made to last.
My Signature Bags: Designs With Character and Scottish Soul
I’m best known for my signature designs — the Muckle Fantoosh, the Peerie Poak and the Ju‑C Rucksack — each inspired by traditional Scottish words and created to be practical, characterful and a joy to carry. These designs have become favourites among customers who want something unique, expressive and made with intention.
A Maker You Can Trust — From Fabric to Finish|Designed to Be Carried, Loved and Trusted
Everything here is transparent, traceable and personal. When you choose one of my bags, you’re not just buying something handmade — you’re choosing heritage textiles, thoughtful design, and a Scottish maker who cares deeply about creating pieces that become part of your everyday life.
Julia Cunningham
A Scottish handbag designer with nearly 20 years’ experience crafting bespoke tweed and tartan accessories for customers who value heritage, quality and individuality. Julia has showcased her work internationally — including at the Hankyu British Fairs in Japan — earning a loyal global following for her handcrafted Scottish textiles.
BSC in Home Economics
HNC in Social Care
City and Guild 730 Further Education Teaching Certificate
