THE HERITAGE OF ALBA TARGES
FÁILTE! - Hello and welcome to the 'Alba Targes' WEBSITE, home to some of Scotland's finest handcrafted targes (Scottish shields) as well as other handmade leather goods. My name is Graeme Biggerstaff and I am a Scotsman based in PERTHSHIRE,SCOTLAND. I have a passion for history and ancient arms and armour.
I recall the first time I set eyes on Scottish targes as a youngster whilst visiting the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, I was captivated by the workmanship and practicality of what was one of the Highland Clansman's main means of defence, along with the dirk and sword. My main inspiration and motivation for becoming a full time targe maker and craftsman came through reading 'Culloden' by author John Prebble. I was completely fascinated by the story of the Jacobite Cause and all the Clans who fought in the uprisings.
Many of my targes are based on or around original designs once owned by Clan chieftains and clansmen. Many fine examples of these still survive in museums, private collections and as family heirlooms. As well as traditional designs and reproductions of originals I also welcome custom designs.
We are also the official targe supplier to the Clan Donald Trust for the Gaelic Performing Arts.
I hope you find our WEBSITE interesting and if you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch! - Sláinte mhath.
Graeme
[since 2014
We believe that every piece of leather tells a story of resilience and craftsmanship. Our philosophy is rooted in authenticity, ensuring that each targe, sporan, and belt is not just a product, but a testament to the Scottish spirit. By blending historical accuracy with modern precision, we create items that are as functional as they are beautiful, designed to be worn with pride and worn for generations.
The Craft
A meticulous exploration of the traditional Scottish leatherworking methods that define our heritage.
Selection
Cutting
Tooling
We source only the finest vegetable tanned and full grain leathers, selecting hides based on their density, texture, and historical suitability for traditional targe construction, sporran and beltr making.
Using traditional hand tools, we cut the leather with precision to create the exact dimensions required for our authentic Scottish targes, sporrans and belts.
As a traditional Scottish artisan, I apply traditional tooling techniques to create the distinctive, hand-finished patterns that define the heritage of Scottish leathercraft.