Our Story
Studio Tolsta is a design studio and manufacturer, passionate about creating products that enrich everyday life. Every piece we make tells a story— brought to life through thoughtful design, skilled craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the materials we work with.
Rooted in Scotland and shaped by our home in South India, we draw on heritage techniques from both cultures to create something distinctly our own.
Produced in small batches and guided by sustainable, ethical practices, we believe the process is just as important as the final result.
From Scotland to South India
Studio Tolsta was founded by Scottish designer Catriona Maciver in her ancestral village of Tolsta on the Isle of Lewis, Scotland. What began as a solo venture in a converted loom shed has grown into a vibrant studio and production unit based in Tamil Nadu, South India.
Originally inspired by Harris Tweed—the iconic handwoven cloth of the Outer Hebrides—Catriona started by making bags and soft furnishings. A 2013 design residency with Tara Books in India opened the door to traditional Indian crafts, sparking a deep and ongoing exploration of textiles and artisanal techniques.
Today, Studio Tolsta is a collective of skilled artisans, tailors, and craft enthusiasts working together to create heirloom-quality goods—thoughtfully designed for everyday use.
Celebrating both Scottish and Indian heritage, our work brings traditional craft into contemporary design, made with integrity and created to get better with time
Our Craft Collective
Our in-house production units are hubs of creativity, specializing in intricate craft techniques such as block printing, embroidery, and tailoring. We believe in showcasing the rich heritage of traditional crafts while re-imagining them—in our own way— for today’s world.
Beyond our in-house expertise, we also collaborate with a collective of talented weavers, natural dyers, and artisans from various regions of India and beyond.
Slow Design for a Lasting Impact
Guided by Slow Design principles, we ensure every product is created thoughtfully and with care. Ethical production, fair wages, and environmentally friendly practices are central to everything we do. Our goal is to offer products you can feel good about—pieces made with integrity, designed to bring warmth and beauty into your daily life for years to come.