Kenmare Lace is an Irish needlepoint Lace. It is made with a needle and thread. It is based on the detached buttonhole stitch.

The Poor Clare nuns came to Kenmare in 1861. They were brought there to teach the children of the locality. They did this very well. They also gave them a skill with which to earn a living. This skill was lacemaking.

The nuns in Kenmare were also talented artists. Training in design added value to their lacemaking and so Kenmare Lace became known worldwide.

Kenmare lace is still made today at the Kenmare Lace and Design Centre in Kenmare.
Here you can learn about the history of this unique industry started by the nuns of Kenmare.

Antique lace from the Poor Clare Convent can be seen in The Kenmare Lace and Design Centre situated up stairs over The Tourist Information Centre and also in The Heritage Centre situated down stairs behind the Tourist Infomation Centre.

CONTACT:
Kenmare Lace and Design Centre, The Square, Kenmare, Co Kerry,
Open by appointment only from Saturday October 28 2017 to Easter 2018

Open Easter (April) to mid October:- Mondays to Saturdays
10.15 to 13.00,and 14.15 to 17.00. Closed on Sundays
Phone 00353 87234 6998 or 00353 6466 42978 or 00353 64 66 41491
or email info@kenmarelace.ie
www.kenmarelace.ie