Ireland is a veritable treasure trove of craftsmanship. For many visitors, the lure of shopping in Ireland is not the sprawling shopping centers but the personal craft stores that dot the country. Almost every county has an Irish craft shop that sells beautifully handcrafted goods such as china, crystals, jewelry, linens and knitwear.
Foremost on the list of must-buys for a visitor to Ireland is the Aran knitwear or sweater. Aran sweaters were originally handmade by the wives or mothers of fishermen from the Aran Islands located at the west coast of Ireland since the 9th century. Fishermen wore them as protection against rain and cold weather. What makes the sweater special is that each family had its own trademark stitch. Thus, when a fisherman died at sea, it would be easier to identify him. Today, Aran sweaters are known worldwide for their unique designs and quality. In fact, Aran sweaters designed by contemporary knitwear designers Lainey Keogh and Michelina Stakepoole had been donned by supermodels Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell. A handmade Aran sweater is well worth one’s Euros and will last for years.
Another must-have on the shopping list of any visitor to Ireland is the Irish crystal. One of Ireland’s claims to fame is the world-renowned Waterford Crystal. Famous for their impeccable quality and one-of-a-kind style, Waterford Crystals have been used as awards and trophies in world sporting events and ceremonies. The best place to purchase a Waterford Crystal is at the Waterford Crystal Visitor Center. The center houses a dazzling array of this exquisitely hand-blown glass.
When it comes to jewelry, the Claddagh Ring is probably the most famous of Irish jewelry. This traditional friendship or lover’s ring got its name from Claddagh, a small fishing village just outside the City of Galway. Richard Joyce, a Galway native, was captured by Algerian pirates and sold as a slave to a Moorish goldsmith who trained him as an artisan. Upon his release in the early 1700’s, he returned to his village and to his utter joy found his ladylove waiting for him. He created the Claddagh Ring and gave it to her as a wedding ring. The Claddagh Ring displays two outstretched hands holding a crowned heart. The heart symbolizes love, the crown, loyalty and the hands, friendship.
Tweed has been produced in Ireland for generations. Originally a cottage industry, tweed making involved spinning, dyeing and weaving local wool. For quality tweeds, a trip to Donegal, the home of tweeds is a must. Here, one can buy apparel made from tweed or pick one’s own tweed by the yard.
Ireland is also known for its intricately designed Irish lace. Lace was first made in Ireland in the mid-19th century during and after the famine years. Training centers were set up by Irish clergies, landowners and convents to help the impoverished Irish population. Today, a handmade Irish lace handkerchief can cost $80.
Throughout Ireland, one can find potteries churning out quality pieces that have found their way to Tiffany’s of New York. One such notable pottery is Belleck Fine Bone China located just outside of County Fermanagh. Shanagarry in County Cork is home to Stephen Pearce’s workshop where he produces a fine collection of tableware. Also worth mentioning is Nicholas Mosse in Bennettsbridge, County Kilkenny for his sponge ware pottery.
Who has not heard of Baileys, the Irish cream liqueur? It is one of the best. Irish cream liqueurs are popular the world over. All Irish cream liqueurs use milk from Irish cows that have been graced outdoors on grass.
A trip to Ireland will not be complete without bringing home some of Ireland’s yummy cheeses like Milleen and Doolin. Handmade chocolates, Irish smoked salmon, biscuits and homemade jams are truly epicurean delights.