Arts and Crafts in and near Kilkenny

If you‘re looking for eclectic arts and crafts, head to Kilkenny. For original arts and crafts in Kilkenny, take a look at Paul Berg Sculptural Furniture, a range of high quality décor items that will add a unique touch to your interiors. Other excellent arts and crafts in Kilkenny include Brendan Brennan‘s attractive handmade leatherwork.

all that Glitsers

All That Glitsers designers and makers of quality connemara marble, Kilkenny marble and gemstone jewellery. All the Glitsers was founded by Sue Bowden in 1988. She designs and makes jewellry using native Irish stones. ... more

Soft, warm woollen garments and exquisite jewellery are just some of the special crafts that you can take home from Ireland. The Irish are famous for their traditional arts and crafts and many Ancient Celtic influences can still be seen in their handiwork meaning each craft piece is infused with history and myth.

The mystical claddagh ring design of two hands holding a heart surmounted by a crown has become recognised worldwide. The centuries-old Irish design represents love, loyalty and friendship and is still used by some couples as a wedding band. Tradition states that if a person wears the heart facing themselves, they are unattached, but if the heart is turned away, they are said to be in love or married. Although claddagh designs are sold all over Ireland, you can be guaranteed a piece of authentic claddagh heritage by purchasing one from the factory in Galway, Thomas Dillion's, where the original rings have been produced since 1750. There is also a fascinating museum at the factory showcasing some of the first rings produced there in the 18th century, and demonstrating how the beautiful pieces of jewellery are made.

Ireland's often chilly weather has made warm woollen clothing very popular over the years, and wool mills across the country weave cosy sweaters, scarves and blankets to keep out the winter cold. The famous Aran Knitwear originated on the western coast of Ireland, where it was often worn by fisherman, who relied on its naturally oiled, thick wool to keep out the sea-spray and rain. The elaborate stitches all have special meanings, and each family also traditionally had their own distinctive wool pattern. These durable and comfortable sweaters can be found all over Ireland, but a good place to pick up an authentic Aran sweater is at Kenny Woollen Mills in Lahinch, or at any other wool mill where you can be assured the garments are handmade.

One of best places to shop for arts and crafts in Ireland is at the wonderful craft markets across the country. These markets are just as much about the festive atmosphere as the superb handicrafts, and they're also the ideal place to pick up a bargain.

Dublin has several markets in and around its busy streets, such as the Temple Bar Craft and Furniture Market, which showcases an excellent selection of metal, freeform and custom built furniture, as well as an eclectic range of crafts including handmade candles, jewellery, pottery, prints, silkwares and soaps. Also in Dublin's designated 'Cultural Quarter' of Temple Bar is Cow's Lane Fashion and Design Market, where you pick up a handmade original design, ranging from chic and trendy clothing to unique art prints. If you're looking for something different, you'll be able to find a unique gem from an up-and-coming designer or artist at the vibrant market. The Blackrock Market, just outside the city, runs on the weekend and offers woodwork, clothing, jewellery and paintings among its extensive craft stalls.

Craft centres throughout Ireland provide another kind of one-stop shop for authentic handmade goods. The Donegal Craft village showcases its county's best arts and crafts and is home to a number of professional crafters' studios. The high quality crafts at the centre include metalwork, batik, jewellery, sculpture and a glass blowing workshop

Northern Island is a brilliant place for craft-shopping: high quality goods from the North include linen napkins, tablecloths and handkerchiefs, pottery, polished Mourne granite, blackthorn walking sticks and traditional musical instruments such as harps, fiddles, drum and bagpipes. To find a variety of fine crafts in the North, visit the Derry Craft Market, a craft centre laid out in a cottage-style format that replicates life in Derry from the 16th to 19th centuries. Crafts range from Derry Crystal to hand-knit sweaters and beautiful linen.