An Carraig Textile Workshop in Carraig Foyle, Forth Mountain, Wexford is a delightful place where you will find award winning designer and maker Máiréad Cairbre.
Máiréad is a member of the Wexford Craft Trail and The Makers House in Wexford town. Her textile workshop incorporates the Tír na nÓg Creations label – a range of bespoke ceremonial robes and accessories for babies made from fine linen produced in Wexford and Ahimsa ‘Peace’ Silk. The Síocháin Silks label is a range of luxurious evening wraps and scarves made from ethically traded silk including Ahimsa silk and silk velvet, using batik dyeing and eco-print techniques where leaves from the local hedgerows are imprinted on to silk or linen without the use of added chemicals.
Group workshops can be arranged to allow participants follow the process from collecting leaves and vegetation on a guided walk on Forth Mountain learning the myths and legends attached to Irish Trees. Vegetation is taken back to the studio and the magic of creation begins. Participants lay leaf designs on delicate fabrics and submerge it in a boiling cauldron, then wait while a uniquely beautiful design comes to life. Máiréad also offers what she describes as ‘elegant economics’ interactive workshops to upcycle ones’ wardrobe. Participants can transform old clothing while learning new skills of design, stitching and other useful techniques.