Not all wool is created equal—nor is all 'Irish' knitwear truly Irish.
Shayna SappingtonOn a summer morning at the Athenry livestock mart in 2024, an unlikely fusion of industry and artistry took place. Bales of freshly shorn fleece shared the floor with pieces of contemporary fibre art. As sheep farmers piled sacks of wool ready for sale, just steps away local artisans showcased intricate knitwear, handwoven textiles, and felted sculptures – all made from the very same native Irish wool.
While the wool from native Galway sheep is durable, insulating, and naturally weather resistant, it’s largely ignored by the fashion industry in favour of softer, imported Merino wool. The knock-on effect? Irish wool lost its place in the global textile economy, and farmers saw their profits evaporate.
One of the Collective’s most celebrated creations is the Báinín vest. Handmade and designed by Shannon Byrnes, the crochet garment is crafted from 100% worsted Galway wool. Aptly known as ‘Báinín’ or ‘lovely white’ , the vest is a symbol of both heritage and innovation: a modern staple built on centuries-old tradition.“There’s no bleach or dye. There’s no chemicals. If we buried it into the ground right now, it would be gone within six months,” Michelle explains.
As the seanfhocal goes: “An rud is annamh is iontach”—what’s rare is wonderful. Irish wool? It’s both.
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