Journey through Mountmellick’s Quaker past and its iconic embroidery style

A Legacy Stitched in Time

Step into the heart of Mountmellick’s rich historied past at the Embroidery & Heritage Museum. Witness the exquisite beauty of “Mountmellick Work”, a distinctive white-on-white embroidery, spanning centuries of craftsmanship. Unearth the town’s Quaker foundations and industrial evolution, brought to life through engaging audio-visual displays. Your comfort is assured with free parking, wheelchair access, and a delightful on-site restaurant.

A must-visit for craft lovers, history enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike.

Guided Tours

Experience Mountmellick’s rich history and unique embroidery tradition with our expert-guided tours for an unforgettable journey through time.

Workshops

Unleash your creativity in our hands-on workshops, learning the art of Mountmellick embroidery from skilled artisans.

Inspired by Nature, Crafted by Hand

Mountmellick embroidery is a unique form of white-on-white needlework that originated in the 19th century in the town of Mountmellick, County Laois. Known for its intricate, textured designs, this craft uses white thread on white satin jean fabric, creating a subtle yet striking effect.

The designs are inspired by the local flora and fauna of Mountmellick and often feature floral motifs, leaves, and vines. It is the only embroidery style of its kind that can claim to be entirely Irish in origin and design with a rich history deeply intertwined with Quaker heritage and the contributions of women.

What started as a practical skill taught to local schoolgirls to earn money for their books has since evolved into a celebrated craft, with its beauty and intricacy now cherished worldwide.

How the Quakers Shaped Mountmellick’s History

The Quakers of Mountmellick played a vital role in shaping the town’s history, industry, and craft traditions. Arriving in the 17th century, they established thriving businesses, schools, and social reforms. Their legacy lives on today, especially through Mountmellick Embroidery, a unique textile art they nurtured and preserved for generations.

Testimonials

What people are saying about their experience

The Mountmellick Craft Museum tour was an unforgettable experience. From the moment we walked in, we were captivated by the intricate beauty of Mountmellick Embroidery and its rich history. The knowledgeable guides shared fascinating stories about the Quaker community and how they shaped the town’s industry and craft traditions. The interactive exhibits made it easy to connect with the past, and we loved seeing the delicate craftsmanship up close. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast or simply curious about Ireland’s history, this tour offers a unique and immersive experience.

I dropped by here with my two kids as I've been meaning to have a look for quite a while and my little one likes to knit and crochet. Cost museum, entrance is to the right of the pub entrance. We had a great tour guide which makes all the difference. Not knowing much about the history or embroidery in mountmellick, it was a fascinating journey. The history and evolution of the art and history of so of the girls who studied it who later were shipped off to Australia. I will be digging deeper into those stories and my daughter will be dropping in for some classes. Thank you very much for a great afternoon. We will be back.

Delightful, intimate museum beautifully displaying and explaining local fiber art and the circumstances of the artists through the centuries. My favorite hobbies are embroidery and social history, so it was a deeply personal experience admiring the talents of the women who created the art and learning more about the experiences which led them to create it. I am so glad we took the opportunity to visit. 

Personal tour of the museum by Patrick. The craft of embroidery is only part of the museum. The detailed information about Ireland and the Irish in the famine years around 1850 and the sending of young Irish girls to Australia moved us deeply. Absolutely recommended! 

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Museum Shop

The Museum Shop provides craft enthusiasts with a curated selection of Mountmellick embroidery raw materials and books. It also offers a range of books detailing the town’s history and unique souvenirs for visitors seeking meaningful keepsakes and insightful reads. Most items in the shop can also be purchased in our online shop.

Uncover the Craftsmanship of Mountmellick

Ready to experience the artistry and history of Mountmellick firsthand? Book a tour today and immerse yourself in the world of Mountmellick Embroidery. Discover the fascinating stories behind each stitch, explore our interactive exhibits, and witness this unique Irish craft in action.

Don’t miss out—reserve your spot now!