Hi, I’m Eric.
If you’ve been following along with our Craftsmanship Series, you know that I have a bit of an obsession with honest materials. There is something about the weight of a piece of real, full-grain leather that just tells a story before you even open the flap.
As you may have guessed from the name of the shop, I have a deep love for heritage gear: especially the kind that comes from the rugged hills of Scotland. Today, I want to talk to you about a piece that is incredibly close to my heart: The Highland Nomad.
When I first started tinkering with the design for what many of you originally knew as our Buffalo Belt Pouch, I wanted to create something that honored the traditional Scottish sporran while making it practical for the modern adventurer. Whether you’re walking through a crowded festival or just heading out to run some errands, I believe your gear should work for you, not the other way around.
The Secret History of the Sporran
Before we dive into the leather and the brass, I think it’s important to understand where this design comes from. The word sporran actually comes from the Gaelic word for "purse."
Little did I know when I first started kilt-wearing that I was joining a tradition that goes back centuries. You see, traditional kilts don’t have pockets. If you were a Highlander in the 17th century, you needed a way to carry your food, your coins, and maybe a few small tools. The sporran was the solution.
Early sporrans were simple leather bags, often made from deer or calfskin, gathered at the top with a simple drawstring. By the time of the Jacobite Risings, they started getting a bit more specialized. You’d see these beautiful brass "cantles" (the metal tops) featuring geometric "bullseye" or target designs. These weren't just for show; some people believe those target designs were symbols of protection, much like the traditional Highland shields called targes.
I’ve always been drawn to that specific 18th-century "Jacobite" aesthetic. It feels more grounded and functional than the very furry, ceremonial dress sporrans you might see at a formal wedding today. That rugged, functional spirit is exactly what I wanted to capture in The Highland Nomad.
Why Buffalo Leather?
When it came time to choose the hide for The Highland Nomad, I knew it had to be buffalo.
I love buffalo leather because it is unapologetically tough. If cowhide is a reliable sedan, buffalo leather is a heavy-duty 4x4. The fibers in a buffalo hide are thicker and more densely packed, which gives it incredible tensile strength. It’s naturally water-resistant and, perhaps most importantly for something you’re going to wear every day, it develops a patina that is just out of this world.
I use a combination of premium buffalo and cow leather for these pouches. The two hides complement each other perfectly: one providing that rugged, coarse grain that masks scuffs, and the other adding a suppleness that makes the pouch feel broken-in from day one.
Crafting The Highland Nomad
Every single one of these pouches is made one step at a time right here in my workshop. I don’t believe in rushing the process. (I usually have a cold soda nearby to keep me going: there’s nothing like a crisp root beer to help you stay focused on the details!)
The Build
I start by hand-cutting the hides to ensure I’m using the best parts of the grain. I then move on to the stitching. I use heavy-duty thread and traditional techniques, ensuring that every stitch is perfect because I want this pouch to be something you can pass down to your kids.
The Closure
One of my favorite parts of The Highland Nomad is the brass closure. It’s a nod to those historical brass cantles I mentioned earlier. It’s secure, it’s durable, and there is a very satisfying "clink" when you lock it into place.
The Drawstring
To keep your essentials extra secure, I’ve included a sturdy buffalo lace drawstring with a leather toggle. It keeps the mouth of the pouch tight so you don't have to worry about anything slipping out while you’re on the move.
A Modern Solution for Hands-Free Carry
While the history is great, I know you need gear that actually works for your life today.
We’ve all been there: you’re at a concert, a craft fair, or maybe out on your motorcycle, and your pockets are overflowing. Or worse, you’re lugging around a bulky bag that just gets in the way.
The Highland Nomad is designed to fit belts up to 2.75 inches wide. It sits comfortably on your hip, keeping your phone, wallet, keys, and small essentials secure and accessible. It’s the ultimate "grab and go" accessory.
I’ve seen customers use these for all sorts of things:
- Festival Enthusiasts: Perfect for keeping your essentials safe while you’re dancing or walking the grounds.
- Makers & Craftspeople: It’s like a stylish tool belt for your most important everyday items.
- Motorcycle Riders: It stays close to the body and doesn't flap around in the wind.
- Modern Kilt-Wearers: Obviously, it’s the perfect companion for your favorite kilt, giving you that authentic look with a modern edge.
Building Your Adventure Kit
I often think of our products as a family. While The Highland Nomad is great on its own, it plays really well with others.
If you’re heading out for a longer journey, you might pair it with The Wayfarer’s Tote. Just like the pouch, the tote starts with a structured feel and slowly softens with use, developing a character that is uniquely yours.
And for those moments when you need to stop and record your thoughts or sketch a quick idea, I always recommend tucking The Chronicler’s Cover into your bag. There is something about the combination of buffalo leather and a good burgundy journal cover that just feels right.
Made with Love, Built to Last
I am so grateful to every one of you who chooses to carry a piece of my work. It’s a privilege to make items that accompany you on your daily adventures.
Every time I finish a Highland Nomad, I take a moment to look at the grain and the stitching, knowing that it’s headed out into the world to start its own story. I hope that when you wear yours, you feel that connection to the past and the excitement for whatever road lies ahead.
If you’re looking for a leather belt pouch or a leather sporran that combines heritage style with honest-to-goodness durability, I’d love for you to check out the collection.
Shop The Highland Nomad Collection Here
Thank you for supporting small-scale craftsmanship and for valuing the things that are made to last. If you have any questions about the leather or the process, don't hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to talk shop!
Stay adventurous,
Eric