Working as a barman/bartender over the last 15 years I’ve used a number of different bags to carry my tools – from aluminum cases, sports bags to leather doctor’s bags and suitcases. They were never an ideal solution to cater for everything (all tools) to fit it all in.  – even when I managed to cram it all in that wasn’t a pretty sight or functional. In the last few years the number of tools I use increased and with the popularity of the craft cocktail culture it is still growing. For example, ten years ago we used one strainer and one knife. Now you require three strainers, three different knives and many  jiggers . There are also different pincers and peelers and multiple barspoons. The increased number of tools needed require more room and a better solution. The worst thing to happen is having to leave your favourite shaker or another tool at home simply because there is not enough room in your bag.

When I finally decided to buy a decent bag a few months ago, I wanted a bag that is durable and one that will last a lifetime and will cater for all my tools. Of course, it also has to be cost effective, functional and look good too.

Unfortunately, the bags available on the market were all too small! And the better quality leather bags were not the right size or were too expensive. I didn’t want to consider plastic or bags made of different materials. When I looked at bags on the internet I noticed vintage bags, like the ones  butchers use to store their knives, and got an idea of what my ideal bag should look like.

When I published the photo of my ideal bag on several forums and social media sites I received fantastic feedback from colleagues. The surge in interest triggered my desire to start producing bags on a larger scale. After some initial minor changes, based on feedback from professional colleagues, the result was an ideal sized bag made with cow hide on the outside and a brushed suede on the inside. Pockets for tools vary in size so you can utilise many tools in whatever order you require. The lid also caters for 4-6 shakers (shaking tins) and two mixing glasses. After extensive research, I have sourced the best cow hide for the exterior of the bag. My aim was to find best quality natural leather so that each bag will be unique with different markings on the leather. Leather is treated with a clear aniline dye to allow the color and natural grain pattern to show through. This process gives a very natural appearance to the Bag.All bags are handmade so production capacity is limited, currently I am unable to produce high quantities.

I’m very proud of what I’ve created,  I am launching the product on the European market with a high quality product which is cost effective and affordable.

Of course, the bag is not just for professional barmen (and mixologists), it can easily be used by catering professionals, brand ambassadors and also amateur barmen who require suitable bag for their tools and equipment.

Cheers,
Lovro Vukadin