Róisín Kelly

This paper will explore how the material culture of home craft objects, such as knitted dolls and embroidered cushions, can be interpreted as evidence of the lived experiences of women in Ireland during the 20th century. With a focus on textile-based crafts, research will explore expressions of identity, memory and care within these objects. Textile-based home crafts offer insight into the everyday experiences of women that are often overlooked in traditional historical records. By placing these particular handmade objects within this context, this paper will explore women’s response to cultural values and domestic responsibilities in Irish society during this time. Research will be informed by conducting object-led analysis, contextualised within archival copies of women’s magazines and discussions with current crafting groups. The research will explore how handmade objects can reflect women’s experiences, creativity, and identity in 21st century Ireland in both private and communal spaces.