Jennifer MacLear founded Putu by J. MacLear in 1999, while living in Bali, Indonesia. When wandering through a hillside town on the island of Bali, MacLear discovered beautiful fabrics and natural weaves made from native materials. Through working with the local people and creating her own designs, the Putu bag was born.

Originally started solely for the production of one-of-a-kind silk handbags, Putu by J. MacLear has recently changed its concentration to spring and summer bags and totes. Putu handbags are exclusively handmade by skilled craftsmen in Indonesia using traditional methods.

The name Putu was taken from the Balinese name for "first born." MacLear, if she were Balinese, would be named Putu.