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Irish Weavers. Continuing An Age-Old Tradition

Written by Lulu O'Sullivan

Hi Everyone. I hope I find you all well this week. In Ireland we are so lucky to have a wealth of craft traditions and artisans and Irish weavers are very much to the fore. Our tweeds and woolen textiles are known for their high quality and continue to be sought after by fashion designers all around the globe.

An Age-Old Irish Tradition

The art of spinning and weaving in Ireland goes back centuries. Early forms of wool spinning go back some 6000 years to Neolithic times. Of course, Ireland has a long tradition of tweed hand weaving. This thriving industry was almost completely wiped out by the Great Famine but some places managed to continue the craft, most notably county Donegal.

Thankfully today, the art of weaving in Ireland continues to grow in popularity and woven Irish Wool Blankets and Throws, Authentic Irish Hats & Caps and scarves are must-have pieces. We have 2 wonderful makers at The Irish Store who continue this age-old tradition to the highest standards. I was lucky enough to visit both Mucros Weavers and Mc Nutt at their workshops in counties Kerry & Donegal.

Irish Weavers

Mucros Weavers County Kerry

 

John and Lulu stand in front of an original weaving loom in the Mucros Weavers workshop in County Kerry

I met John of Mucros weavers at Muckross House in the stunning surroundings of Killarney National Park in Kerry. The gorgeous house and gardens include the Sunken Garden, the Rock Garden and my personal favorite, the Stream Garden. Check out our video below to find out more about the age old Irish weaving tradition at Mucros and see their 200 year old Hattersly loom in action!

 

 

Mucros Weavers Top Picks

1. Women's Classic Irish Wool Newsboy Cap

Women's classic grey Irish wool newsboy cap, featuring a traditional rounded shape and visor.
This stunning hat is beautifully crafted made from pure wool and features a soft leather flower motif at the side. Choose from our great variety of shades and tones, from earthy Irish greens and gray herringbone to the more vibrant pinks and lilacs.

2. Mucros Knee-Length Cape

A woman stands by the water in a gray, textured cape coat and matching hat. She has long, wavy hair and smiles slightly as she poses for the camera. A few boats are anchored nearby, and rocky shorelines can be seen in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Beautifully crafted from 100% wool, this swing style cape exudes sophistication. Its full button fastening ensures a secure fit, while the satin lining adds a touch of luxury

3. Men's Heritage Plaid Irish Flat Cap

Man wearing a dark gray cable-knit heritage sweater and blue Irish flat cap outdoors, holding the cap brim
My final pick is a 5 star customer favorite for him. Made from luxurious pure wool and fully lined, the dark gray fabric features a blue overcheck. The perfect gift from Ireland.

Mc Nutt of Donegal

 

Lulu and William of Mc Nutt at his shop and studio in Downings, County Donegal.

In the picturesque village of Downings on the stunning Rosguill Peninsula in County Donegal, you will find Mc Nutt of Donegal. Here they have been producing stunning weaves for more than 60 years. Their team of designers take inspiration from the surrounding awe-inspiring land and seascapes. Check out our video where William takes me on a tour and tells us all about the history of Mc Nutt.

 

Mc Nutt Top Picks

1. Mc Nutt Lambswool Check Throw

Mc Nutt Lambswool Check Throw. A folded plaid blanket featuring vibrant colors, including shades of pink, orange, blue, and brown. The blanket has fringed edges and displays a label with the brand name "McNutt." It rests on a dark blue surface.

Add a modern Irish accent to any room with this luxurious lambswool throw. The check throw from Mc Nutt of Donegal combines a traditional Irish plaid design with choice of 2 irresistible modern color palettes. Choose muted seascape shades or a colorful vibrant blend.

2. Ladies' Herringbone Lambswool Scarf

A woman sits on a stony beach, wearing a dark green sweater and a bright green scarf by Mc Nutt of Donegal. She smiles, looking relaxed and enjoying the moment. Her hair is wavy and falls around her shoulders.

Crafted from beautifully soft and easy to wear merino lambswool, the design is classic herringbone and the vibrant colors are sure to add a striking finishing touch to any fall/winter look. It also comes beautifully presented in a crafted gift box.

3. Mc Nutt Luxury Cashmere Lambswool Throw

A gray blanket by Mc Nutt of Donegal with an orange plaid pattern is folded neatly on a dark blue surface. The blanket features fringed edges and has a label visible on one corner. The background is a soft green color.

Another stunning Irish blanket from the looms of Mc Nutt. The merino/cashmere yarn adds an unmistakable touch of luxury. Choose steel gray with a hint of orange or silver with a touch of muted raspberry.
Shop our stunning collections of blankets, throws and Irish & Celtic Accessories from the looms of some of the finest Irish weavers.
Take care of yourselves and each other
Slán go fóill!
Lulu.
The Irish Store banner
Lulu O'Sullivan, Founder & CEO of The Irish Store, is a woman with wavy, shoulder-length blonde hair is smiling gently at the camera, wearing a blue top and white shirt. The background features a weathered wooden surface, suggesting an outdoor or rustic setting.

LULU O'SULLIVAN

Hi everyone. I'm Lulu O Sullivan and I founded The Irish Store in 2011 fuelled by my passion for all things Irish; its places, its people, its culture and its craft. At The Irish Store we are dedicated to bringing you, our worldwide community of valued customers, the very finest Ireland has to offer. Thanks for dropping by!

2 comments

William Linnane Apr 04, 2023 at 15:24

Thanks for sharing .I have great admiration for both the products and the craftmanship required. There’s nothing like woven wool for both warmth and comfort.

Reply

Lulu O'Sullivan Apr 03, 2023 at 08:16

Hi Susan,

I am so glad you enjoyed the blog. I have such an admiration for hand knitters-such a wonderful skill.

Thanks for reading!

Kind regards,

Lulu.

Reply

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