In the little town of Avoca, we found the oldest working woollen mill in Ireland and one of the world’s oldest manufacturing companies. The mill dates back to 1723 and was used for grinding corn and spinning and weaving wool.
On a guided tour, we learned about the traditional way of weaving by hand, which is still used to try out new designs.
In 1927, the Wynne sisters took over the running of the mill. The dynamic trio of sisters, Emily, Winifred and Veronica were well suited for that job, with their skills in textiles, weaving and business management.
The Wynne sisters introduced the use of vibrant colours and new weaving patterns. The surrounding countryside provided both inspiration and dye sources. In the walled garden of their family home, they grew plants to use for dyes. With these dyes, they created new colour combinations by twisting strands of wool fibre together with differing colour tones. The sisters’ colourful creations are still the brand’s signature today.
Avoca Handweavers sell their products in shops all over Ireland, but also export a lot. Some designer or labels order their own design at Avoca.
Before we had been on the guided tour, we might have been able to leave without buying anything, but afterwards, it was impossible. We are now owners of beautiful scarfs in the fantastic colour design Avoca is so famous for.
As we have still a couple of days before our ferry leaves, we will now travel inland to explore some more.