A special pre-Christmas exhibition celebrating patchwork, embroidery and traditional stitching will take place in Limerick this November as part of the Creative Ireland Creative Communities Programme.
Supported through the Limerick Creative Ireland Creative Communities Programme, administered by Limerick City and County Council, the project is presented by Giddygoat Patchwork and led by textile artist Gerardine Cahill. The initiative showcases the work of local makers while highlighting the importance of preserving traditional textile skills and celebrating Limerick's rich textile heritage.
The programme culminates in a free public exhibition at 14 Ellen Street, Limerick, from Tuesday 24 to Saturday 28 November 2026, open daily from 10am to 4pm.
Visitors can view a collection of quilts, wall hangings, patchwork and embroidered pieces created by members of the community, reflecting both traditional techniques and contemporary creativity.
A number of workshops in patchwork and embroidery will also take place during the week, providing opportunities for participants to learn new skills and develop existing ones. Places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, highlighted the broader value of community-led cultural initiatives, saying:
“This workshop and exhibition is a reminder that Limerick’s heritage is stitched into our communities, in skills passed from one generation to the next. Bringing people together to learn, create and share those skills is exactly the kind of community-led culture that makes Limerick special. I’d encourage everyone to visit Ellen Street from Tuesday, 24 November, to Saturday, 28 November, to see the remarkable work on display.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Councillor Tom Ruddle, praised the contribution of local community groups in keeping traditions alive:
"Councillors see first-hand the value of local groups like Giddygoat Patchwork in bringing people together and keeping community traditions alive. This exhibition shines a light on the talent that exists across Limerick and the important role community organisations play in preserving our heritage."
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Pat Daly, noted the importance of supporting projects that celebrate local heritage, saying:
"The Creative Communities Programme is designed to support projects that deliver meaningful cultural experiences at a local level. By providing opportunities for people to learn, share skills and showcase their work, this initiative demonstrates the positive impact that targeted investment in community creativity can achieve."
Textile artist Gerardine Cahill commented:
"This project celebrates the creativity of participants while helping to preserve traditional skills that have been passed from generation to generation. We're delighted to showcase the work created by members of the community and to share these craft traditions with new audiences."
Full Workshop Programme:
Tuesday, 24th November, 10am - 3.30pm | Mini Christmas Tree Wallhanging Workshop
Wednesday, 25th November, 10am - 12.30pm | Christmas Bauble Workshop
Thursday, 26th November, 10am - 3.30pm | Christmas Table Runner Workshop
Saturday, 28th November, 10am - 4pm | Christmas Bobbin Roll Workshop
Workshop places are limited, and advance booking is recommended. Booking details and further information are available on www.limerick.ie.
