The Irish Countrywomen's Association Book of Crafts

June 1, 2015

The Irish Countrywomen's Association (ICA) was founded in 1910 to help improve the lives of rural women in Ireland by providing instruction in a variety of homemaking-related skills, including cooking, sewing, and handicraft. The organization is still in existence today, and continues to offer guidance on a variety of topics, with a focus on maintaining traditional Irish culture. This collection, curated by ICA members, celebrates the work of the group by presenting projects using an array of techniques, including hand embroidery, crochet, knitting, patchwork, beadwork, and sewing. Some traditional Irish crafts, such as Carrickmacross lace and Irish crochet, are also included. Many of the projects have a timeless, vintage appeal, and the styling of the photographs, which feature props such as old spools of thread and antique sewing machines, adds to this effect. Knowledge of basic techniques is assumed--the directions are often minimal. VERDICT The assortment in this book will appeal to crafters who like to sample a taste of everything, and the beautiful handiwork of ICA members is inspiring.

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