Mary Coonan is a textile maker who runs her business, Gléasta, from Portmarnock, Co. Dublin. Mary discovered a love of sewing at a very young age from watching her grandmother and mother making their own clothes. At Gléasta you will find unique handmade gifts, with an emphasis on design and quality, to suit any occasion. All products are carefully handmade by Mary using carefully selected fabrics and trims.
What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?
I start my day checking emails and orders. If I have orders, they are packed and ready to post later in the afternoon. Then it’s either a day spent at the cutting table or sewing machine, I like to spend a day cutting so I have a stock of items ready to sew. After lunch if I have orders I’ll go to the post office, then it’s back to the studio until dinner time. Sometimes later in the evening I may sneak back to the studio to order supplies and search for new fabrics and suppliers.
What do you like most about your work?
The variety, no two days are the same which makes my work so enjoyable and interesting.
What’s your favourite craft item in your home?
We have a lot of craft items in our home – I really like pottery and Ireland has so many talented potters. There are also two very precious items; a pine dresser my father made and a framed picture of a peacock embroidered by my mother.
What advice would you give someone who is considering this craft career?
Believe in yourself and go for it.
How do you start your day?
Breakfast with coffee and a walk, hail rain or snow, with our dog.
