Dean Stapleton is a Dublin-based designer and handweaver specialising in traditional Irish tweed. Trained in Donegal under master weaver John Heena, he works on a traditional handloom using 100% Irish wool.

Through Stapleton Tweed, he creates handcrafted pieces that celebrate Ireland’s textile heritage while promoting sustainable, locally made craft. His mission is to preserve the art of handweaving and inspire a new generation to appreciate this historic skill.

What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?

Most of my days consist of weaving some tweed but I always have a project or custom orders to do, so I could be sewing scarves or making crios belts either for to wear or for handfastings.

What do you like most about your work?

I love working with my hands and also the pace of my work is quote meditive. I look at at clock and its already time to go home. Time flys when you love what you do.

What’s your favourite craft item in your home?

A custom colourful blanket I made for the back of my sofa!

Tell us about your first craft item you made

I dont remember, but weaving wise it would have been a crios belt. One xmas my brother got me a small loom (I was talking about learning to weave) and he said if you dont make a crios with in a week then ill take it from you… so that was that.

Who is your inspiration?

It would probably be master weaver John Heena, he is the one who trained me how to use the big traditional looms. I like to think a bit off him or his spirit is carried on in each piece I make.

What advice would you give someone who is considering this craft career?

Go for it, take a chance you wont regret it. If you really want to do something you will make it happen.

Where do you get your inspiration?

I get a lot off my inspiration from the land here in Ireland.

Is sustainability an important aspect of your business?

Yes, we even use all our scrap wool for differnet projects.

What’s the most challenging part of your craft?

The time and physical effort to create traditional pieces.

What made you choose your discipline?

I love weaving and wanted to preserve an Irish traditional craft.

Have you ever had a “happy accident” while making something?

All the time… thats the beauty of the craft. You make a “happy accident’ but learn how to fix and overcome the issue. That for me is a great achievement.

How do you balance creativity with the business side of things?

By setting aside time to create personal pieces or seting time aside to create something new.

What would you say to anyone thinking of becoming a DCCI member

Join up and get recognised for your work!