The last of the master weavers: 'Years gone by, a woman wouldn't have been allowed at the loom - the old boys wouldn't have heard of it'

The traditional craft of tweed making in Donegal was facing decline, with only a few aging master weavers remaining. However, recent years have seen a revitalization as younger artisans embrace the craft, bringing new styles to the age-old practice. These young weavers are now employed at notable establishments like Magee 1866 and Studio Donegal, as well as pursuing independent projects, suggesting a promising future for this historic yet evolving tradition.

Only a few years ago, hand-weaving in Donegal was at death's door. There was only a handful of master weavers left - all men in their 70s and 80s.

In the space of a few years, those fortunes have turned around, with young handweavers now employed at both Magee 1866 in Donegal Town and Studio Donegal in Kilcar.

Read at Independent