WE can anticipate a fine range of Irish goods handmade by craftspeople using Irish materials in an imminent series of Winter fairs. Clare Crafts is the voluntary organisation organising Christmas Craft Fairs at Bunratty Castle Hotel this Saturday 20 and Sunday 21; at Fitzgerald’s Woodlands Hotel in Adare on Sunday December 5 and in UCH on Sunday December 19 and Monday 20.
The news is even better for punters in search of unique goodies this giving season – admission is free and everything sold is made by the artisan standing at his or her stall.
“This means that if you want something in other dimensions or with an inscription or different colour or wood, the craftsperson can make if for you according to direct specification”.
The bearer of these glad tidings is Ann Moloney, member of Clare Crafts, the umbrella group whose logo testifies to works by bona fide Clare based artisans. “We also have handmade goods from people based in Donegal and other counties that we can vouchsafe are made in Ireland with materials sourced here”.
Ann speaks of wood-turning and carved lampstands and mirrors; silver jeweller, glass beaded jewellery and fused glass; castings, wall prints; Christmas and scented candles; unusual cards, textiles such as knits, fleecy blankets and batik.
“In the Food Court, especially at UCH, we will have puddings, cakes, preserves, wine made from rosehips and elderberry, sauces and wonderful cheeses from Cork. Come along to the venues listed on an 11am to 5pm basis or at the concert hall December 19 and 20, 12noon to 5pm”. Tel. 087-7439198.
