Bramble Green is a family run business founded by Claire Taylor-McCooke in 2016. The business is based near the famous Dark Hedges in Co. Antrim, along Ireland’s scenic Causeway Coast. Many of the knits made for the Studio are crafted with the flecked Donegal wool.
Bramble Green stocks a wide range of knitwear products for both adults and children incuding; hand-knit beanies and bonnets, handmade baby booties, irish-craft cardigans and scarves made on the handloom, local Alpaca knits, Donegal socks, aran sweaters made in Ireland and Europe and Scottish Fair Isle produced in Scotland by Eribe Knitwear.
Tell us about your retail business.
We offer a personalised shopping experience at the Bramble Green Studio, visitors will hear about the craft behind the handmade pieces and the history of the Aran sweater. Complimentary tea and coffee are included in the experience, (coffee made with locally ground Fidela coffee beans).
Bramble Green is located at the homebase of the McCooke family in the heart of the County Antrim countryside, minutes from the Dark Hedges and a short trip to Ballycastle or the Causeway Coast. Customers can also buy from us online at our webshop.
When did you first open?
The Studio opened in September 2023 (we have been online since 2016)
How did your retail journey begin?
Bramble Green started as an online business. Claire began with baby knits, sourcing local knitters and designing unique pieces including our sweet little bonnets. Claire was bringing up her own children during this time.
What kind of products or makers do you stock?
Knitwear and blankets produced and sourced largely in Ireland. Claire designs many of the pieces. We often use wool from Donegal Yarns to make our knits. Scottish fair-isle from ERIBE knitwear. McWilliams Bags from Cork and Rock & Ruby Cotton socks from England.
How do you choose the makers and products.
Quality and sustainability are a big factor.
Why is supporting Irish makers important to your business?
It is at the heart of our business. We are supporting the local economy and local people. Some of our knitters are women knitting at home with fantastic talent.
How would you describe your store’s identity
Sustainable, Authentic and Friendly
What is your background in craft?
I was inspired by my Mum and Grandmother. Both women were talented at knitting and creative. My creative side really flourished after having children and coming back to Ireland after living in London.
What do your customers love most about your in-store/online experience?
Our personal approach. We get back to people quickly online and we are very friendly and welcoming at the Studio.
What would you say to anyone thinking of becoming a Made Local Retailer?
Made Local is a business and lifestyle choice that makes you feel good about what you do.
What is your most memorable moment or product you had with your shop
Our new Icon Sweaters are really unique and offer an abstract take on traditional Irish scenes or products.
