Hi, I’m Colette McCandless, and welcome to Colette’s Crochet! I’m from the beautiful town of Carndonagh in Inishowen, Co. Donegal, where I grew up surrounded by the creativity and craftsmanship of my mother and grandmother. From a young age, I watched them create stunning, practical clothing and blankets through crochet and knitting, and I was lucky enough to learn the art of crochet from my mother. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills, turning what was once a necessity for warmth and comfort into a joyful and therapeutic passion.
Crochet has always been a part of life here in Inishowen and Co. Donegal, with a rich history of “Lace Schools” dating back to the 1890s. These schools aimed to revive traditional skills like lace making, embroidery, weaving, knitting, and crochet, empowering women to boost their family income. It’s said that even Queen Victoria purchased lace curtains for Buckingham Palace from an exhibition of Irish lace in London! While machine-made goods eventually took over, the tradition of handmade craftsmanship lives on through people like me, who cherish and continue these timeless skills.
At Colette’s Crochet, I create a variety of handmade items, from cosy throws and baby blankets to stylish handbags, scarves, and headbands. Each piece is crafted with care using high-quality yarn, blending the ancient technique of crochet with modern designs. My range is always evolving as I experiment with new ideas, ensuring that every item is both practical and beautiful.
Crochet is more than just a craft to me – it’s a way to connect with my heritage, find peace in the rhythm of the stitches, and create something special for others. I’m so grateful to carry on even a little of the skills passed down through generations, and I hope my work brings a touch of warmth and joy to your life. Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy exploring my creations!
