Kathleen McNea is a fourth generation basket weaver. She learned her skills from her father and has adapted many different styles but also tries to keep the traditional style alive. She always had a great interest in basket weaving. It wasn’t until her father’s death in the early 80’s that she decided to keep the craft of basket weaving alive. But in 1988 Kathleen and her family emigrated to England. After the family returned to Achill in 1992 Kathleen found that there was great local interest in the baskets and the learning of weaving. She was asked by local groups to teach them basket weaving and that was how Kathleen began to share her knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise. Since then Kathleen has worked with many Women’s Groups in Achill, Newport and Ballycroy and has also worked with the local V.T.O.S group (adult education). There is still a great and growing interest in basket weaving classes not only within Ireland but even from people in America who have come to classes during their stay in Ireland. During her class you will be shown the different types of baskets (pardógs, clíabhs, and many other traditional baskets which were native to the west). You will be shown how they are started, weaved and finally how they are finished off.
