About Us
Our Story
skout began as a humble venture at flea markets in 2021, born out of a family of makers and collectors with a desire to make room in our homes for even more unique finds. What started as a personal hobby quickly garnered attention, with frequent requests for a permanent store.
This enthusiasm inspired us to transform collecting second hand goods into a business, beginning with our online edit. The collection highlights some of our most beloved discoveries, with the goal of inspiring a community that cherishes all things second hand. We strive to make sustainable shopping accessible, affordable, and fun —whether you're seeking timeless jewellery, distinctive homeware, or a touch of vintage flair for your wardrobe.
In 2025 we opened up our flagship store in Edinburgh, creating a physical space where our finds can truly shine. We look forward to meeting you!
Our Approach
Based in Stockbridge, skout presents a thoughtfully curated selection of secondhand goods, each chosen with an emphasis on craftsmanship, sustainability, and longevity. Our mission is to encourage a return to slow living, where products are reclaimed, repurposed, and restored, offering a conscious alternative to the fast, disposable consumption prevalent today.
We are keen to preserve the art of quality design and the enduring value of items that have been passed down through generations. skout sources a diverse range of treasures, from antiques and vintage finds, to jewellery, haberdashery, homeware, textiles, furniture, and apparel. Each piece is handpicked for its style, quality, and story. We take pride in the careful selection of every item—our hand-knitted pieces are made from reclaimed wool, our jewellery features only hallmarked silver and gold, and our apparel is crafted from the finest materials, including pure cotton, wool, and cashmere. At skout, we celebrate the lasting impact of thoughtful, sustainable consumption.
Our Team
We are a family-run business, set up by a Daughter, Mother and Auntie who all have a knack for finding treasures and seeing the potential in second hand goods. At the heart of skout is family, community and an ambition to celebrate the skills of those around us.
As skout's founder, Madeline spearheads the creative direction of the business; overseeing branding, visuals, and the online presence. Her artistic vision and attention to detail infuse every aspect of skout, ensuring the brand remains personal, inspired, and distinct.
Susan plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of skout. From meticulously filtering through stock to cleaning, researching, and repairing, she is the backbone of our quality control. Her dedication ensures that every item is fairly priced, thoroughly researched and aligns with our values.
You won't find Sarah at the store as she is out sourcing unique items that populate skout’s collection, as well as leading the restoration process. With a deep appreciation for textiles and their cultural history, she ensures each piece is carefully restored, honouring its craftsmanship and heritage while breathing new life into it.
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