2 days in-depth garment knitting with Carol Feller of Stolen Stitches
We will go through the process of knitting a garment that you love. Starting with good body measurements and swatching and moving into possible modifications. Bring a garment pattern you would love to work on with yarn and needles for swatching or alternatively work with Carol to find a pattern that works for you during the retreat. Swatching yarn will be provided and additional yarn available at Carol’s pop up shop. All in the gorgeous lakeside surroundings of Loch Lein Country House!
Irish Fibre Crafters Fleece and Fibre Experience with Sandra King
Get ready for a hands-on, woolly adventure! We’ll start by meeting some of the world’s fluffiest celebrities—various sheep breeds—while comparing the wool they produce. You’ll get to feel the differences in texture and see adorable photos of these woolly wonders. Then, we’ll dive into the journey from fleece to fiber, following the process from shearing all the way to the finished yarn. You'll get to experience carding first-hand, using both hand carders and a drum carder, transforming raw fleece into soft, fluffy fiber.
Next, we’ll spin some magic—literally! You'll watch spinning in action, both on a drop spindle and a spinning wheel, and even try your hand at the drop spindle yourself. From there, we’ll weave some creativity into the mix with a floor loom demonstration, exploring how wool can be turned into beautiful woven, knitted, or crocheted garments. You’ll even get the chance to try a small loom—or possibly a floor loom—yourself! To add a splash of colour, we’ll take a peek into the fascinating world of natural dyeing (a two-day process, but we’ll give you a quick inside look). And the best part? You’ll take home your very own naturally dyed skein of wool to continue your fiber journey!
Ériu Farm to Yarn Experience and Natural Dyeing Class with Malú Colorin of Talú Earth
Zoe and Lionel of Ériu Farm to Yarn are dedicated to working with selected breeds and blends to produce quality Irish wool as a sustainable, natural resource. Ériu is the Irish goddess of fertility, sovereignty and abundance. They are situated in the wild Wicklow mountains at the foot of Lugnaquilla - stunning and October when the trees turn golden. The area is surrounded by fairy rings and stone circles so there is a particular magical element to this part of Ireland.
This morning enjoy tea and scones on arrival, with a farm tour, river walk and be the first to see the Ériu woollen mill under construction! Have lunch on the farm (included) and learn about the new Kingfisher yarn colour palette. Come away with your own gift of an accessory pattern and a skein!
Take part in a Talú Earth natural dyeing workshop with Malú Colorin. With a background in graphic design and fine arts, in 2018 she began her experimentations and research into natural dyes and studied with master dyers in Mexico, Ireland, the US and Japan. Her work draws inspiration from the traditional garments of her native Mexico, while embracing the rich heritage of Irish textiles. She connects with each of her natural dye sources, as well as the land where they grow.
Foynes Flying Boat Maritime Museum and Ballyhoura Fibres Trunk Show The Maureen O'Hara and The Quiet Man Collection
Enjoy the history of the incredible Flying Boat and Maritime Museum, close to the heart of Maureen O'Hara. See her amazing costumes, including The Quiet Man and see the cottage kitchen and the horse trap from the movie! Learn to make your own Irish Coffee in the very place it was created and receive a certificate and medal to keep! Join Ballyhoura Fibres for a fabulous talk and trunk show featuring Cierra's stunning yarns inspired by nature!
Quick Enquiry
Thank You!
Your enquiry has been sent, we?ll be in touch soon.
