Make Your Own Harris Tweed Bag in Edinburgh: Islander Workshop Review

If you are looking for a unique souvenir from Scotland that is both practical and meaningful, making your own Harris Tweed bag in Edinburgh is a brilliant experience. I recently joined the Islander Handbag Workshop in Edinburgh and created my own Medium Satchel. It was hands on, creative and a lot of fun!

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Review – Islander Harris Tweed Bag Workshop Edinburgh

What is the Islander Workshop?

Islander is a Scottish brand known for combining Harris Tweed with leather to create stylish, practical handbags. In their Edinburgh workshop, you get to design and assemble your own bag from scratch. You choose your bag style, pick your Harris Tweed cloth, select the leather colour for the base and straps, then put it all together with guidance from the workshop team.

Workshops run throughout the day and are popular, so booking in advance is recommended.

Choosing My Bag and Colours

I chose the Medium Satchel, priced at £80. There were so many beautiful colour combinations to choose from. You can mix and match the bag base, the tweed flap, the handle, the two straps over the flap and the shoulder strap.

I went with a green leather base and straps, paired with a Harris Tweed flap in earthy greens and browns. Selecting the components was one of my favourite parts of the experience. My advice is to have a rough idea of colours before you arrive because it is very easy to get overwhelmed by choice.

Not Sure Which Bag Size to Choose?

One question I have been asked since sharing this experience is which bag size to book. If you are undecided, there is an easy solution.

When booking the workshop, select the Mini Satchel to secure your place. At the start of your session, the instructor will walk you through all the available bag styles and sizes. You can then make your final decision on the day once you have seen the options in person.

This is actually part of the fun. Seeing the different styles, comparing sizes, and visualising colour combinations in real life makes choosing much easier.

Top Tip: Have a rough idea of whether you want a small crossbody style or a larger everyday bag before you arrive. It helps narrow down choices once you see the shelves of options.

The Workshop Experience

There were around ten of us in my session, which made it feel friendly and sociable. Everyone was chatting, comparing colour choices and admiring each other’s designs as we went along.

All tools and materials are provided. The team give clear step by step instructions, and they are always nearby if you get stuck. No previous crafting experience is needed.

The process took around 60 minutes from start to finish. Time flew by. I really enjoyed assembling the bag and watching it come together piece by piece.

The Finished Bag

At the end of the workshop, you leave with your completed Harris Tweed bag, fully functional and ready to use. My Medium Satchel has a top handle, a shoulder strap, a front clasp closure and a zipped pocket on the back, so it is practical for sightseeing days.

I was genuinely impressed with the quality. It feels like a proper piece of craftsmanship and is functional and attractive.

Would I Do It Again?

Absolutely. Next time I would love to make the medium backpack satchel. It is also a lovely activity for couples, friends or solo travellers who enjoy creative experiences.

It is also a great option if you are visiting Edinburgh and want something different in your itinerary.

Tips Before You Go

• Decide roughly what colours you like before arriving
• Book in advance as sessions can fill up
• Allow around 90 minutes including choosing components
• Bring your camera as you will want photos of the process!

How to Book

If you would like to make your own Harris Tweed bag in Edinburgh, you can book the Islander Workshop Experience here: