Skilled trio join Crafters of Ireland
THREE Wexford-based companies have signed up to become part of Crafters of Ireland (COI) – a new national support system for crafters, artists and designers producing handcrafted goods.
Founded by Bernadette Clancy, the network aims to create visibility for all who join and aims to grow to incorporate crafters in the UK, Europe, the US and beyond. Signed up in Wexford so far are Wild Herb Elixirs, High Cross Wood Carvings and Zaeire Artisan Chocolates.
Wild Herb Elixirs was founded by medical herbalist Phil Walsh. She creates totally natural elixirs, soaps and remedies from her herbal studio in rural Wexford, where she developed her interest in the wild flowers and nature that surrounded her.
Carpenter Stephen Sheridan is the man behind High Cross Carvings, having started it as a hobby while he was still in school. After suffering an accident that brought an end to a lot of his carpentry work, Stephen began to work more on carvings and creating his own designs, particularly focusing on Celtic symbols and ancient Ireland. Using just mallets and chisels, he creates everything from thrones to crests and garden furniture.
Zaeire Artisan Chocolates is the brainchild of Leigh and Paul Kelly. Originally from South Africa, Leigh started making chocolates from her kitchen in 2013 as a hobby. Soon she realised it was a business opportunity and the couple decided to seize the day and pursue their passion.
‘We are so proud of our crafters,’ said Bernadette Clancy of COI.
‘We get to know each of them. They are not just a number on an online shop; we promote them globally.
‘COI is growing, and we welcome anyone from this sector to join us if they are producers of handcrafted products and have a connection to Ireland.’