Made in Westmeath, the umbrella group promoting craft workers and the industry within the county, has opened its own shop for the festive season on Mount Street, Mullingar.
The unit, which has been open since November 23, carries examples of the craft work of the 15 of the 25 artisans who operate within Made in Westmeath.
The idea was put forward to celebrate the Year of Craft, marking 40 years of the Craft Council of Ireland, which “makes funds available to local craft groups to invest in projects that take craft to the people”, according to Ms Jillian Shaw, from the Westmeath Enterprise Board.
“Fifteen brave craft workers entered the world of retail when they opened their first shop venture on Mount Street,” said Ms Shaw.
“This unique little project called Made in Westmeath is exactly that, born and nurtured in County Westmeath. All of the products you see in the shop were designed and hand crafted by busy craft workers in the county, and it represents the ultimate experience in buying local,” she stated.
The Made in Westmeath shop has a range as diverse as jewellery, wood turning, knitwear, handbags, Christmas decorations, soap, art, furniture, children’s books and jigsaws, bog oak, and hats and scarves so there is something for everyone. In addition, the craft workers are working there every day so customers will actually get to meet the makers.
The shop is open seven days a week until December 24, and features the craft work of Westmeath people from Crookedwood, Killucan, Mullingar, Moyvore, Mount Temple, Moate, and Athlone.
For further information please see www.madeinwestmeath.ie
