Discover the colourful world of Kinaldie Creations’ Lee Ritchie…
There’s something quietly magical about Harris Tweed. Perhaps it’s the way the colours shift with the light, echoing the rugged beauty of the Outer Hebrides. Or maybe it’s the sense of heritage, handwoven into every thread. For Lee Ritchie, it was love at first stitch.
As the creative mind behind Kinaldie Creations, Lee has turned this iconic fabric into charming, handcrafted gifts that brighten homes and hearts alike. From vibrant cushions and personalised purses to keepsake cards and bespoke bags, her work is immaculate, endearing and inspirational.
‘I spent 20 years in Human Resources in the oil and gas industry,’ Lee explained, ‘but I always dreamed of running my own small business. My ambition started to take shape in 2018 when I stepped away from my HR career to spend more time with my young family. I borrowed my Mum’s sewing machine and started out with Harris Tweed lampshades. I opened a shop on Etsy. I still remember the excitement of that first sale! I was hooked from then onwards and was thrilled to receive my own sewing machine for Christmas.’
The pandemic provided Lee with the chance to focus more on her creative work. She branched out adding cushions, purses, bags and cards to the Kinaldie range, each piece proudly featuring the distinctive Harris Tweed label and a whole lot of love.
Lee’s love of sewing runs in the family. Her mum was a bridalwear dressmaker, and although she taught Lee the basics, Lee credits her own determination for mastering the craft. ‘I’m self-taught, and a total perfectionist. If a stitch is out of place, I’ll unpick and redo it—no compromises!’
Today, Kinaldie Creations is a full-time venture. Lee sources her tweed directly from the Isle of Harris and supports independent weavers, giving her access to unique colours and patterns you won’t find on the high street. She gravitates towards bright, joyful hues, especially fabrics with pinks and purples. Her designs are often inspired by her walks around the forests and gardens of Aberdeenshire.
Her personalised cards are a particular hit, and customers return time and again for her thoughtful, made-to-order gifts. ‘I love knowing my work becomes part of someone’s special moment,” she says.
You can find Kinaldie Creations online, at kinaldiecreations.co.uk or on Etsy at etsy.com/shop/KinaldieCreations My greetings cards and smaller gifts are stocked at Heartfelt Aromas in Rosemount and at Sonya Angus the Unique Boutique in Cults. I also exhibit at local craft fairs throughout the year, including the Craft & Flea fairs at the Music Hall and Trend’s own Xmas Fayre at the Marcliffe on November 9th. My socials always showcase events and new designs.
facebook.com/kinaldiecreations/
instagram.com/kinaldiecreations
