This sampler piece of Borris Lace was made by local lacemaker, Ena Atkinson, who was involved in the Borris Lace revival of 1991 and continued to make Borris Lace for many years. A great neighbour and friend, Ena taught me the craft of Borris Lacemaking in 2005 and eventually in 2022 I was so proud to join the Borris Lacemakers and make lace which originated in Carlow.
Borris Lace
An extract from the article printed in the Nationalist and Leinster Times on Friday, November 1, 1991.
Borris Lace is a craft which was introduced to the South Carlow town around 1857 by Lady Harriet Kavanagh of Borris House. It was established as a local craft to provide much needed employment. Tradition has it that Lady Kavanagh visited Corfu and was so impressed by some specimens of Greek lace that she bought some. She fostered the craft at a time when Borris and its estates were ravaged by the effects of the Great Famine. In the days when the craft was vigorously pursued by the ladies of Borris they carried out their lace work in the daylight outside their homes as it was not possible to work in the dark environment of their houses.
It became so highly successful that a sample was presented to Queen Victoria and later many members of the royal family wore the lace. It ceased to be a cottage industry during the First World War.
In 1991, the Carlow federation of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA) in association with An Foras Áiseanna (FÁS) funded the employment of a lacemaker, Faith Green from Plymouth, to teach the craft to the local women and revive Borris Lace.
Borris Lace Sampler Made by Ena 2005
Borris Lace Collar Made by Mary 2024
Borris Lacemakers
Borris Lacemakers is an innovative and creative community group established in 2016 and dedicated to the revival of the unique and distinctive Borris Lace which dates back to 1846.
We collaborate with local communities to ensure that Borris Lace remains part of our local and national heritage. We offer workshops, demonstrations and events that encourage and inspire a new group of Lacemakers to carry on this noble tradition.
Becoming a member promises multiple benefits that go above and beyond the skill of lacemaking. It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends. You can learn the skill of lacemaking and create timeless gifts for your friends and family.
In today’s busy world, lacemaking is a wonderful way to relax and unwind, whilst playing your part in the revival of Borris Lace.
