The Munster Vales is bursting with all sorts of providers, makers, doers and bakers. Crafters in the vales are all about producing quality, unique pieces that represent the locality and, right across the counties, you’ll find everything from quirky handmade pieces to fine artwork and bespoke furniture.
Many local makers come together for totally varied one stop crafts shops.
If you’re in Cork, head to Blackwater Valley Makers which brings together the best of local artists, jewellers, carvers and illustrators plus plenty more local talent inspired by the surrounding area. Or call into Fiona Turley’s studio in Kilworth where the artist creates a selection of bespoke artwork and limited prints in a range of styles on silk and canvas. If wood is your thing, you need to check out CK53 Design in Kildorrey where they produce fabulous airondack chairs, wooden butter knives and beer caddies.
If you’re visiting Waterford, make sure you make it your business to stop off at a Market House Craftworkswhich is run by a small collective specialising in creating contemporary crafts using traditional methods. They produce ground breaking and classic pieces from felt, leather wood and ceramics and, if you time it right, you might be able to catch an exhibition of local talent. If you’re looking for something totally bespoke, head over to Lismore Goldsmith and craft where husband and wife team Moritz and Una can work with you to create a special piece of jewellery. They also stock a range of locally sourced textiles and crafts.
Doneraile’s Great ARTitude has a range of woven, crocheted and knitted pieces to pick from with a wide selection and styles of artwork. Or, in Lismore, call to Celisse Studio for a wide choice of stunning artworks from local artist Aislinn Celisse or Gallery Valerie, a quirky, colourful gem of a shop that you will not be able to leave empty handed.
In Tipperary, don’t miss the Tudor Artisan Hub which is packed with handcrafted products from a collect of established and emerging artists from the area. Be prepared to spend some time here!
Similarly, Clonmel’s the Narrow Space has a great gallery and giftshop which stocks designs by over 50 Irish makers and some impressive pieces from international artists. From glass sun catchers to jewellery, kids’ books to a great range in cards, you’ll definitely find something up your street. Cahir Arts is home to an art gallery with a really interesting array of forms, a design shop and a range of workshops where local makers produce ceramics, pottery, jewellery and artwork.
Rossa Pottery is a little gem of a shop run in Cashel by three local artists who produce a great selection of colourful jugs, bowls, plates and vases.
In Limerick, the Lough Gur Pottery Centre not only offers a collection of homeware but a range of workshops and classes to get your hands on your own potter’s wheel. Ballyhoura Ceramics is filled with beautifully produced and finished porcelain pieces inspired by the flow and colours of the nearby Morning Star river by local artist Eithne Hehir.
