In PICTURES: Landmark day for world famous Laois craft

Mountmellick Embroidery's bicentenary was celebrated last weekend with the unveiling of a commemorative embroidery piece at a special event in the Mountmellick Community Arts Centre.

This commemorative piece, which was unveiled on Saturday, November 7, celebrates the craft while paying homage to the old 19th-century craft.

Mary Ging made the first stitch in the project. She has been involved with Mountmellick Embroidery since the 1970s, when Sr McCarthy revived the craft here in Mountmellick.

People from all over Ireland and overseas joined the local community and schools in workshops run over a few months in the Mountmellick Embroidery & Heritage Museum at the MDA.

This project introduced a new generation of stitchers to Mountmellick Embroidery to help ensure this craft endures and is enjoyed for years to come.

Janet Stewart, Padraig O’Toole, Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach Laois County Council, Liz Moore and Frank Fennelly were among those who unveiled the finished product.

The morning also featured guest speakers who shared the story behind the craft, highlighting its origins, its local 1970s revival, its spread to enthusiasts worldwide, and the community dedication that brought this anniversary piece to life.

Mountmellick Embroidery is officially recognised on Ireland’s National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

It is a unique white-on-white needleworks style featuring nature motifs, originated by Quaker Johanna Cartera and now practiced all over the world.

Pieces are on permanent display in Mountmellick Embroidery and Heritage Museum.