On Saturday 3rd November, I went to the RDS in Dublin to see the annual Knitting and Stitching Show. It was my first experience of the show and I must say it didn't disappoint. I have a keen interest in textiles, and have a deep love for anything ranging from knitting to patchwork to embroidery, so I have to confess I was like an excited child at Christmas when I strolled into the RDS and saw the huge array of stalls full of textile-y things! Shelf after shelf of coloured wools, packets of buttons, rolls and rolls of printed fabrics with any motif you could dream of, my eyes feasted on this wonderful celebration of craft and design. The sheer vibrancy of the colours and the vast quantity of stuff really was an eye-opening experience.
One of the many stalls selling haberdashery, with a beautiful patchwork display as a backdrop
Far from being a mundane setting with only a scattering of elderly women clutching their knitting, the RDS was heaving with a great variety of people, both young and old. The crowds on Saturday were large for most of the day, and showed little sign of easing until about 5 o' clock. There was an enthusiasm and energy throughout the building which was palpable and infectious, and it left me with little doubt that I am quite passionate about textiles. There were some Textiles students from NCAD with stalls showing their work and notebooks which was quite interesting, as well as traditional lace makers, and patchwork displays. I also was talking to Roscommon tapestry weaver Frances Crowe, who I have worked with in the past as part of a collaborative school project. She showed me some of her weaving which was great, as this is something I really enjoy when I have the time.
Frances Crowe, Roscommon tapestry weaver
I was also talking to several textile designers and artists who been working on a project based on a mill, since April this year. Unfortunately I can't remember their names, but they were very helpful and they let me look at their notebooks which was brilliant! As a student, it was beneficial for me to see the work process involved, and to observe how ideas formed and developed. It was very encouraging to see so many people who are working in an area that I aspire to work in, with a passion and vigour that really shines through in their work. It definitely has given me a boost to keep working hard and to experiment with my creativity. All in all, it was a fantastic show, and I would recommend it to anyone who has an interest in textiles, but also for anyone who enjoys viewing hand-made crafts. I look forward to next year's show!
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