The Irish Countrywomen's Association Book of Crafts

Nothing compares with the pleasure and satisfaction of making something yourself, and for years the Irish Countrywomen's Association has been at the forefront of Irish craft. This beautiful book is an inspiring collection of projects from ICA members that introduce traditional Irish crafts in a fresh, modern way. From making your own jewellery and embroidered cushions, to crochet hats and handmade Christmas decorations, 'The ICA Book of Craft' contains 40 practical projects to inspire you to have a go.

Many of the ideas are simple enough to be tackled by beginners; some are more of a labour of love. Try your hand at a cosy scarf, beautiful Aran jumper or delicate lace collar, or add finishing touches to your home with redwork embroidery, fabric covered boxes or seasonal decorations.

Collected from ICA members around the country and captured in beautiful, atmospheric photographs, the projects in this book show you how to make jewellery, soft furnishings, clothing and festive decorations with a personal touch and a home-made flavour.



Founded in 1910 the Irish Countrywomen's Association celebrated its centenary in 2010. With over 11,000 members, 27 Federations (or County Committees) and 553 Guilds around the country, the ICA has played a pivotal role in supporting Irish craft and keeping traditional skills alive.



Contents

Acknowledgementst11

Introductiont13

Stitch and Sew

Hairpin Crochet Stolet21

Crochet Cushion Covert26

Allsorts Patchwork Quiltt29

Chicken Scratching Embroidery Tea Cosyt33

Smocking t37

Shadow Embroideryt41

Redwork Embroidery Cushion Covert45

Cross-stitch Bookmarkt49

Rag Rugt53

Make and Wear

Child's Aran Jackett58

Crochet Hatst69

Whirl Scarft73

Upcycled Child's Skirt and Capt77

Clones Lace Wild Rose Medallion Necklace t81

Irish Crochet t85

Peyote Stitch Bracelett93

Beaded Ring Necklace t97

Tissue Paper Pompomt101

Donegal Tweed Necklace and Ringt103

Felted Bead Necklacet105

Button Ringst109

Store and Keep

Lumra Bag t113

Leather Bagt117

Covered File Boxt119

Hedgerow Basket t124

Rushwork Coil Table Mat t127

Hand Stamped Tea Towelt129

Celebrate

Lace Crochet Baby Bonnet and Bootees t132

Iris Foldingt141

DIY Circular Disc Bannert145

Mr and Mrs Claust148

Two Little Angelst154

Carrickmacross Lacet161

Mini Wreatht170

Christmas Table Runner and Place Matst173

Hat Pin Cushiont176

DIY Ribbon Dispensert179

Christmas Card Holdert181

Knitted Easter Chick t185

Homemade Blackboard Signt189

Contributorst190

Creditst192



'A handsome hardback with beautiful photos... a joy to flick through'



'A jolly, easy-to-follow and inventive selection of 40 projects to undertake at home. This is a fantastic gift, or indeed source of many gifts'