James McLaughlin’s story starts in Maine, where the rugged coastline, dense forests, and an appreciation for the outdoors shaped his early life. Growing up camping, hiking, and lobstering with friends, James developed a deep connection to the land and a love for the kind of goods that could stand up to wild nature. But his journey wasn’t just about the outdoors—it was a winding road through basketball courts, music studios, street art scenes, and fashion runways that led him back to Portland, where 33 By Hand was born.
From a young age, James was always creating. Whether it was sketching designs, mixing beats, or crafting streetwear looks, his passion for the creative process was undeniable. His first major foray into the professional world wasn’t in fashion, though—it was in music. Los Angeles became his home, where he worked as a recording and mixing engineer in the heart of the industry. The city buzzed with energy, and the music scene was alive with possibilities. But amid the beats and basslines, James found himself drawn to another art form: fashion.
In L.A., James got a close look at the fashion world, and it captivated him. The idea of creating something tangible, something people could wear, ignited a new spark. He began to explore this passion, transitioning from music to the hands-on craft of leatherwork. It was a bold move—one that would eventually bring him back to the place where it all began.
When James returned to Maine, it wasn’t just a move back home—it was a reconnection with his roots. The rugged landscapes and the spirit of adventure that had shaped his childhood became the inspiration for his designs. He started working with a small company in Portland, refining his skills in leatherwork and learning the meticulous craft of hand-stitching. As he honed his craft, an idea began to take shape—an idea that would become 33 By Hand.
At 33 years old, James officially launched his brand. The name "33 By Hand" wasn’t just a nod to his age but a reflection of the hand-stitched nature of his products. Each piece was made by hand, with the same care and attention to detail that James put into everything he created. As the brand grew, the meaning of 33 By Hand deepened. It came to symbolize more than just age or craftsmanship—it became a representation of the journey, the creative process, and the idea that everyone shapes their own life, just as James had shaped his.
In Portland, 33 By Hand quickly became more than just a business—it became a community hub. James wasn’t just making leather goods; he was creating a space where art, music, and creativity could thrive. He hosted DJ sets, art shows, and cultural events at his store, turning it into a gathering place for like-minded individuals. The store’s unique blend of rugged, outdoors-inspired goods with high-end luxury and streetwear vibes set it apart in Portland’s creative scene.
Customers are drawn to the story behind the products—the story of a local Mainer who had traveled the country, worked in the music industry, designed for outdoor gear companies like Hyperlite Mountain Gear, and returned home to create something truly special. They come back for the quality, the innovation, and the heart that James puts into his unique items. More than that, they came back for the connection—to the brand, to James, and to the community he is continuously building.
As James looks to the future, the story of 33 By Hand continues to evolve. The brand remains rooted in the artistry of handmade craftsmanship, but it’s also about the journey—about where it started, where it’s going, and the people who are part of it along the way. In every bag, in every product, in every event, you can see the story of 33 By Hand—a story that’s as unique and rugged as the state of Maine itself.