Ailbhe is a handweaver, trained in Donegal and now based in Bray, Co. Wicklow where she produces handmade woollen fabrics on her antique loom using traditional methods.
Ailbhe’s practice is underpinned by a decade of experience in architecture, where the over-consumption and waste associated with the construction industry pxrompted a re-evaluation of the role of indigenous craft and local materials in everyday life.n
What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?
Days in the studio vary for me depending what stage of production the cloth is at. Each warp I create is like a new cycle in the studio, meaning on any given day I could be focused on warping, weaving, drawing-in, sewing, or sitting down to plan my next moves, which always keeps things dynamic and interesting.
What do you like most about your work?
I love seeing the cycle of a warp from start to finish, from planning the pattern to weaving it and all the steps in between.
The time it takes (days!) provides a sense of anticipation and suspense, and seeing the final product is always so rewarding.
On a smaller scale, I love the mind-body connection that comes with focusing on a task that involves working with your hands for hours on end, and how it connects to the heritage of the craft and all the hands that have made textiles in years past.
What’s your favourite craft item in your home?
My John Heena tweed throw, of course.
What advice would you give someone who is considering this craft career?
The beauty of weaving is that there is always something new to be learned, whether that is a different technique, a new knot, or completely alien equipment to what you’re used to.
Every day really is a school day and embracing that and remaining open-minded is where the most interesting outcomes often happen.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I always feel most inspired when I meet someone who is really passionate about what they do.
Hearing about or seeing somebody else’s creative medium always provides the perspective I’m looking for in times of burnout, or when I don’t even realise I need my mind opened a little!
Is sustainability an important aspect of your business?
Of course! Wool being a natural material, it’s something that comes from the earth and will ultimately return to the earth, with little to no damage made to the planet.
Everything I make is made with sustainability in mind, where I use materials treated and produced in 0, engage with traditional methods of production, and ensure minimal waste, always keeping offcuts and waste material to be upcycled in different ways.
What’s the most challenging part of your craft?
The most challenging part is definitely space! Weaving on a full-size floor loom is not a craft you can comfortably do in your home or from a desk.
The equipment is magnificent, but really occupies a lot of room and requires workshop-type space, so that has been a huge challenge for me being based near Dublin City.
What made you choose your discipline?
Also working as an architect, I had come to learn a lot about materials, their origins, how they’re made and their lifespans through university and work projects.
It prompted a re-evaluation for me of materials and waste, and through an existing love for knitting and textiles, led me to weaving. The process is one of the biggest draws for me, but also how weaving is linked inherently to Irish heritage, and I’m honoured to be a part of preserving the skills and knowledge associated with the craft.
Being a member of DCCI is invaluable for hearing about opportunities, meeting other people working in your craft area and feeling part of a community.
Ailbhe Beatty, Seol Studios
Founder, Hand weaver
