The circle might have been man’s first artistic representation. No straight lines exist in nature but curves, circles and spirals definitely do.

Once, the portrayal of any of the works of the Creator was forbidden and so geometry and mathematics were used to make abstract works of art. It isn’t hard to see how the patterns in nature such as flowers and the apparently circular movements of the stars and planets inspired the art of our ancestors.

Their actual origins are ancient and lost in time, but artwork similar to the art of the Celts can be found in many guises across Asia and Europe. And circles, in various degrees of complexity have been found in art across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. But here in Scotland, as across Britain, circle designs can be found on everything from enamelled bronze ornaments to stone monuments.

What we call Celtic designs may possibly have originated with Asiatic peoples, thousands of years BCE and may have been carried from the east to the west by travellers such as Alexander the Great or even Genghis Khan.

This hand carved and hand stitched leather journal or sketchbook slipcover comes from my 'Celtic' range.

Shown here in size A5, it fits a  standard A5 ‘Page per Day’ diary, A5 notebook or sketchbook. A4 and A6 covers may also be available.

All my products are hand-fashioned. That means that these hand-carved and hand-stitched leather slip covers can be personalised, making them ideal for that special, one-of-a-kind gift.

Please do get in touch if you wish to discuss your ideas and preferences.

Visit the Commission Enquiries page for a full customising service.

All Old Barn Leather journal covers come complete with an appropriately sized notebook.