Studded Turtle Archive

23 JANUARY 2026.

Studded Turtle is a gig archive and zine. Creating hand-made zines and capturing footage on his camcorder, Studded Turtle, also known as Sam, has become a core member of the Scottish DIY emo community. From age 14, Sam has been documenting shows and printing zines at school, and for the past 2 years been cultivating a collection of prints and documentaries that showcase Glasgow’s DIY shows. Now, age 17, studded turtle is hosting events, posting on YouTube, publishing zines, and collaborating with independent artists across Glasgow.

Photo by @fraser_gig_photos instagram

Sam started going to local shows when he was 14. Small, sweaty, 20 cap shows. Documenting the night by taking photos on an old camera he found in a drawer. He had been getting interested in different subcultures, emo and hardcore specifically, and their DIY approach to art. The community spirit and relaxed environment made it feel fun to create. He wanted to find more bands, more ways to get involved and create, so, he kept going to local shows with his camera and taking point shoot pictures.

After a year of going to shows, in 2024, between taking pictures at Kingston skatepark show and gigs at beloved DIY venue Audio Lounge.

Studded Turtle was ready to start documenting Scottish music within the DIY emo scene.

The videos were uploaded to YouTube and the photography gathered from live shows were turned into collages, printed, folded up, and stapled into 8 page booklets.

Zines! They contain interviews, art, messages, photos, and drawings.

Photo by @fraser_gig_photos instagram

To snag some zines, I headed down to Audio Lounge

in Maryhill for the Studded Turtle 2 year anniversary show.

The place was packed, filled with various hair colours and the smell of cigarettes. I knew i had entered a DIY show, and I was ready to two-step.

I went up to the zine table

to see what publications they had. They were laid out on a pool table with various artists work and prices. I noticed a lot of free stickers, pay what you can zines, and general community spirit at the stall.

Anyone was free to buy, trade, and sell.

Photo by @fraser_gig_photos instagram

I enjoyed the set, and Minecraft Steve being flung across the room.

Kira Ketover, Glowwworms, Rateatrat, and Moss also performed.

photos by @fraser_gig_photos instagram

Talking to Sam about Studded Turtle and zine culture,

we agree, the best part of DIY is the community that

comes with it. Anyone can make anything, you just have

to try it and these spaces can connect you with

like-minded people.