Winter is upon us again, and in theory at least, lacemakers make the most of the long dark evenings creating exquisite masterpieces with threads and bobbins!

Life continues to be multi-faceted for me, and growing more so. I have had some interesting mural projects in recent months, with more upcoming, both at home and even overseas - spring 2006 will see me travelling back and forth to Germany to work in a beautiful town called Kalstat, south of Frankfurt in the Palatine wine region, an idyllic setting. The location is an exclusive small hotel currently under renovation, and it is an incredibly exciting challenge for me - more details in my next newsletter!

Here at home there seems to be renewed interest in lacemaking, and an exhibition at the Dublin Knitting & Stitching Show in November brought forth new students now wielding bobbins with much enthusiasm in my studio. I have begun running one-day and multi-day workshops each month, and also can now welcome several students to stay with me in my home on B&B plus evening meal basis. Lunch is provided for day students also. I will be developing these courses further in 2006, so anyone interested, either resident here in Ireland or intending to visit from overseas, please email me for more information and upcoming dates.

My newest lacemaking venture is into the world of jewelry, combining my Irish Celtic lace designs with further embellishments of river pearls and Swarovski crystals to create unique, one-of-a-kind necklaces, hair ornaments, and other accessories. This began when I wore a necklace I created in this style to some functions, and I was asked if I would take commissions for similar pieces. It is an area of design I love, so I am very happy to explore the possibilities.

The example shown here is my 'Dolphins of Dingle' necklace, in which the 'waves' swirl around the neckline 'dripping' tiny shells, starfish and iridescent glass 'water droplets', and the centrepiece is a pair of leaping dolphins made in lace. Dingle, on the west coast of Ireland, is famous for its dolphins, especially a longtime resident named Fungi, who loves to swim with all who visit him, and that was the inspiration for this necklace, which I designed for a sea-themed lace exhibition here in Dublin. The jewelry world seems a natural extension for my Fairy Threads (Sna Si) label, under which I design for Irish dancing costumes.

More news on all of the above in the New Year.......
Meanwhile, I wish everyone a peaceful and happy Festive Season and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

Best Wishes and Happy Lacemaking -

Ann.