Founder Stories
Mackenzie Leather
In the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, there’s a small team busy crafting the most beautiful leather bags by hand. Mackenzie Leather Edinburgh continues a long-held tradition of leatherworking. Led by Simon Harvey Potts and Elena Álvarez, the workshop brings together a small team of makers who approach their craft with care and intention. Here’s their story.
This week's reading
Discovering the world of homemade remedies, with Becky Cole’s The Garden Apothecary.
Win a Biscotti Basket!
Win an exclusive Cantucci biscuit basket by Aria’s Cakes, featuring a delicious selection of signature Italian Biscotti flavours.
Notes from under the Walnut Tree
‘Pressing small things into the soil with a quiet wish of good luck, trusting that they will do what they are meant to do in their own time.’
Makers we love
From the Directory this week
When a business stands out for its craft and care, we add it to our Artisan Brand Directory, a growing A-Z of independent makers we believe are worth knowing.
North Uist Distillery
Positive Bakes
Lindsay Oliphant Art
All About The Grind
Explore the Directory
Our recommendations of independent brands making thoughtful goods across food, home, wellbeing, and more.
This week's reading
Discovering the world of homemade remedies, with Becky Cole’s The Garden Apothecary.
Win a Biscotti Basket!
Win an exclusive Cantucci biscuit basket by Aria’s Cakes, featuring a delicious selection of signature Italian Biscotti flavours.
Notes from under the Walnut Tree
‘Pressing small things into the soil with a quiet wish of good luck, trusting that they will do what they are meant to do in their own time.’
THE ARTISAN FOUNDER 2026 Business AWARDS
Nominations Open
The Artisan Founder Creative Business Awards celebrate outstanding UK independent businesses.
Each year, we recognise founder-led artisan businesses working across craft, design, food & drink, wellbeing, and homewares, highlighting those creating work with care, consistency, and integrity.
The awards are free to enter and provide a considered space for discovery, bringing together editorial selection, expert insight, and public recognition.