Why I Choose Harris Tweed® Cloth: A Complete Guide to Authentic British Craftsmanship
Not all bags made with tweed are created equal. If you're searching for a bag that combines heritage, durability, and timeless style, you need to know about Harris Tweed® cloth.
I'm Emma, and I handcraft every bag in my small studio in South East Wales using Harris Tweed® cloth sourced directly from a mill in the Outer Hebrides. In this guide, I'll share everything you need to know about Harris Tweed® cloth, how to spot authentic pieces, and why I've chosen this remarkable fabric for my Heritage Range.
What Is Harris Tweed® Cloth?
Harris Tweed® isn't just any tweed. It's the only fabric in the world protected by its own Act of Parliament.
Under the Harris Tweed Act 1993, only cloth that meets strict criteria can carry the Harris Tweed® name:
- Handwoven by skilled weavers at their homes in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland
- Made from 100% pure new wool
- Dyed and spun in the Outer Hebrides
- Finished in the islands
This legal protection guarantees authenticity, quality, and heritage in a way no other fabric can claim. When you buy one of my bags made with Harris Tweed® cloth, you're getting material that has been inspected and certified to meet these exacting standards.
Source: Harris Tweed Authority - The Harris Tweed Act (harristweed.org)
How to Spot Authentic Harris Tweed® Cloth
With so many tweed bags on the market, how do you know you're getting the real thing?
Look for the Orb Mark
Every metre of genuine Harris Tweed® cloth is stamped with the Orb mark, the official certification trademark of the Harris Tweed Authority. This symbol guarantees the cloth has been inspected and meets all the standards set out in the Harris Tweed Act 1993.
The Orb is stamped on the back of the cloth at the mill. While you won't see this stamp on the finished bag, it's how I verify authenticity when I source my materials.
Check for the Official Label
Here's what really matters: finished goods made with Harris Tweed® cloth must carry an official Harris Tweed® label permanently affixed to the item. These labels are strictly regulated by the Harris Tweed Authority.
As a registered maker, I have my own permanent Maker's Mark (the Bunny E) registered with the Harris Tweed Authority. Every bag I make with Harris Tweed® cloth carries the official label with my mark, your guarantee of authenticity.
Understand What You're Buying
When you purchase one of my bags, you're buying a piece handcrafted by me using Harris Tweed® cloth that I've sourced from a mill in the Outer Hebrides. I'm not affiliated with or endorsed by the Harris Tweed Authority, I'm an independent maker who chooses to work with this exceptional material because of its quality, heritage, and authenticity.
Why I Choose Harris Tweed® Cloth
Exceptional Durability
Harris Tweed® cloth is renowned for its strength and longevity. The tight weave and high-quality 100% pure new wool create a fabric built to last. This durability is one of the main reasons I chose it for my Heritage Range, I want to create bags you'll use for years, not seasons.
Source: Harris Tweed Authority - How It's Made (harristweed.org)
Timeless British Style
The patterns and colours of Harris Tweed® cloth are inspired by the landscapes of the Outer Hebrides: heather-covered hills, rugged coastlines, and ever-changing skies. These aren't trend-driven designs, they're classic patterns rooted in place and tradition.
Unique Character
Because Harris Tweed® cloth is handwoven by skilled artisans working from their homes in the Outer Hebrides, no two pieces are exactly alike. The natural variations in the weave and colour mean each bag I create has its own individual character.
Natural Weather Resistance
The natural lanolin in the wool gives Harris Tweed® cloth excellent water-resistant properties. While it's not waterproof, it handles light rain well and dries quickly without damage. Combined with my custom water-resistant lining, my bags offer practical protection for your belongings.
Supporting British Craftsmanship
When you choose one of my bags made with Harris Tweed® cloth, you're supporting skilled weavers working from their homes in the Outer Hebrides, the workers at the mills, and independent makers like me who are committed to keeping traditional British craftsmanship alive.
Source: Harris Tweed Authority - How It's Made (harristweed.org)
The Emma Easter Handcrafted Heritage Range
I launched my Heritage Range to celebrate everything I love about British craftsmanship and heritage materials. Each bag is handcrafted by me in my studio in South East Wales using Harris Tweed® cloth sourced from a mill in the Outer Hebrides.
Meet the Collection
Rosa Harris Tweed® Tote (Regular)
The Rosa Tote is my signature style. With its structured silhouette and generous capacity, it's perfect for work, weekend adventures, or everyday use. The Harris Tweed® cloth exterior is lined with my custom water-resistant canvas, featuring an illustrated design licensed from a talented illustrator.
Craftsmanship Detail: Each bag takes between 3-6 hours to handcraft, and I make every one individually, no batches, no mass production.
Rosa Harris Tweed® Small Tote
If you prefer a more compact style, the Small Tote offers all the character of the regular size in a lighter, more streamlined package. It's ideal for days when you need just the essentials but still want that distinctive Harris Tweed® look.
What Makes My Bags Different
Custom Water-Resistant Lining: Unlike many bags made with Harris Tweed® cloth, mine feature a custom printed water-resistant canvas lining that protects your belongings and adds a unique touch.
Individual Craftsmanship: I cut and sew every bag myself. Each piece carries a unique code that reflects its individuality and provenance.
Natural Variations: Because I work with Harris Tweed® cloth and handcraft each bag, natural variations in the weave, pattern placement, and colour are part of what makes your bag special.
Celtic Made Scottish cloth, handcrafted in Wales, a celebration of shared Celtic heritage and traditional craftsmanship.
How to Care for Your Harris Tweed® Bag
Harris Tweed® cloth is remarkably low-maintenance, but a little care will keep your bag looking beautiful for years.
Daily Care
- Brush gently with a soft clothes brush to remove surface dust
- Wipe the leather elements with a slightly damp cloth
- Allow the bag to air out after use, especially if it's been in damp conditions
Stain Removal
- Blot (don't rub) any spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth
- For stubborn marks, use a barely damp cloth with a tiny amount of wool-safe cleaner
- Always test on an inconspicuous area first
Storage
- Store your bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Stuff with acid free tissue paper to help maintain its shape
- Avoid plastic bags, let the natural fibres breathe
What to Avoid
- Never machine wash or tumble dry
- Don't use harsh chemicals or bleach
- Keep away from direct heat sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Harris Tweed® cloth is naturally water-resistant thanks to the lanolin in the wool, but it's not waterproof. My bags handle light rain well, and the custom water-resistant lining provides additional protection for your belongings. I wouldn't recommend using them in heavy downpours without additional protection.
Because Harris Tweed® cloth is handwoven and I handcraft each bag individually, natural variations in pattern placement, colour, and weave are part of the character. Your bag will be similar to the photos but uniquely yours.
I don't offer customisation options like personalisation, colour choices, or size variations. Each bag is made as shown, ensuring I can maintain the quality and craftsmanship standards I'm known for.
Harris Tweed® cloth is built to last for decades when properly cared for. I construct each bag with quality hardware and careful craftsmanship to match the longevity of the cloth. With proper care, this is an investment piece you'll use for years.
I source my Harris Tweed® cloth directly from a mill in the Outer Hebrides. I order only what I need at the time, which means the patterns, colours, and weights vary based on what's available from the mill.
Every bag I make with Harris Tweed® cloth carries the official Harris Tweed® label with my registered Maker's Mark (the Bunny E). This is your guarantee that the cloth meets all the standards set out in the Harris Tweed Act 1993.
Why My Bags Made with Harris Tweed® Cloth Are Worth the Investment
In a world of fast fashion and disposable accessories, my bags made with Harris Tweed® cloth represent something different: quality, heritage, and longevity.
When you invest in one of my bags, you're choosing:
- A piece built to last for years, not seasons
- Authentic Harris Tweed® cloth protected by law
- A unique item with natural character and variation
- Support for traditional skills and independent makers
- Timeless style that transcends trends
- Custom features like water-resistant lining not found elsewhere
The price reflects the reality of working with premium materials and traditional craftsmanship. Harris Tweed® cloth isn't cheap to produce, it requires skilled labour, time, and expertise at every stage. When I handcraft each bag individually, spending 3-6+ hours on every piece, I'm investing my skill and care into creating something that will serve you well for years to come.
Ready to Discover Your Perfect Harris Tweed® Bag?
If you're looking for a bag that combines British heritage, exceptional quality, and timeless style, I'd love to welcome you to the Emma Easter Handcrafted Heritage Range.
Each bag is handcrafted by me in South East Wales using authentic Harris Tweed® cloth sourced from a mill in the Outer Hebrides. With custom water-resistant lining and individual craftsmanship, these aren't just bags, they're pieces you'll treasure for years.
About Emma Easter Handcrafted: I'm Emma, and I handcraft every bag in my small studio in South East Wales. I work with Harris Tweed® cloth because I believe in quality, heritage, and supporting traditional British craftsmanship. Each bag I make is an individual piece, crafted with care and designed to last.
Leave a comment