Iconic Ireland: Legends & Linens of the Emerald Isle
Quilting the Columns of the Giant's Causeway

- Two-day virtual workshop
- Now available on demand.
- Premiered LIVE October, 2024
- Lifetime, on-demand access to all recordings and materials
Join Jenni Smith and Kay Walsh in learning how the Irish lived in the mid-19th century during a visit to the Ulster Folk Museum. Expert textile curator Valerie Wilson describes what quilters made and with which materials they worked, and traditional weaver Roisin Aiston demonstrates the linen-making process. Plus, social historian Roselind Shaw shares her personal—and very impressive—stash of Irish patchworks. And British Empire Medal recipient Irene MacWilliam will present a show-and-tell about her exceptional body of work.
And prepare to be wonder-struck by the legends and folklore of Ireland. During our time together, you will explore the legend of St. Brigid through a stunning miniature quilt exhibit put on by the Irish Patchwork Society in Dublin and traverse the Giant’s Causeway’s 60-million-year-old basalt stones in Northern Ireland. Not only will you see breathtaking views of this world-famous landmark, but you will also learn how to quilt the hexagonal columns in a one-of-a-kind quilt project—made with linen, of course!
Purchase a pre-recorded single pass for Iconic Ireland: Legends & Linens of the Emerald Isle. Upon registration, you will be able to access all event details and resources on our exclusive Attendee Hub.
About the Project

The natural wonder known as the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is a bucket-list destination for many people—and understandably so. The iconic hexagonal columns, formed from basalt stones, can be seen for miles and have continued to be shaped by the sea for millions of years. And the legend that Irish giant Finn McCool created the causeway to reach his Scottish rival makes it that much more extraordinary!
The Iconic Ireland project, the mini Causeway Quilt, will teach you how to create a simple pattern on freezer paper and sew accurate seams, which give the illusion of a hexagonal top on each column without English paper piecing. This modern design lends itself to creative quilting and can be completed in a matter of hours. Your hosts will also share ways for you to personalize your quilt with family history or perhaps your own connection to the Emerald Isle.

Workshop Highlights

Irish Linen at the Ulster Folk Museum
Irish linen is world renowned for its supreme quality, cultivated on the island since the 11th century. Meet Roisin Aiston, a traditional weaver at the Ulster Folk Museum, who will guide you through the linen-making process from flax to finished cloth, all undertaken in the charming museum setting.

St. Brigid Miniature Quilts
The legend of St. Brigid is brought to life through the medium of miniature quilts, exhibited in Dublin by the Irish Patchwork Society. See highlights from the show and “meet” some of the makers behind the creations.

Giant's Causeway
Soak up breathtaking, aerial views as we walk around the Giant’s Causeway—a bucket-list destination for any adventurer—on which our quilting project is based.

Irene MacWilliam
Quilt personality Irene MacWilliam, awarded a British Empire Medal for her services to textile art in Northern Ireland, will present a show-and-tell about her extensive and exceptional body of work.

Roselind Shaw
Attendees will get a close look at social historian and quilt collector Roselind Shaw’s personal collection of vintage Irish patchworks.

Pub Fare & Fun
Join Jenni and Kay in trying a very traditional drink: Guinness! Or if you are not too keen on the black stuff, you might love our sweet alternative of Guinness Cake, washed down with your favorite cuppa.
Get Access Today!
Purchase a pre-recorded single pass to Iconic Ireland: Legends & Linens of the Emerald Isle. Upon registration, you will be able to access all event details and resources on our exclusive Attendee Hub.