The new #MadeLocal initiative, launched this week by Amy Huberman and Leo Varadkar for the Design and Craft Council Of Ireland, seeks to highlight, support and promote Irish craft at a difficult time in its long history. #MadeLocal is targeted at those of us who are planning on holidaying at home this year and who would typically bring home mementos of our holidays abroad. We’re being asked to seek out those considered and thoughtful pieces here in our own backyards and to treat ourselves to a little something special to remember our “staycation”.

We may not have the weather (toes and fingers constantly crossed), but we are so lucky to live in a country whose indigenous craft industry is as highly skilled and diverse as ours. Beautiful handcrafted items are available from talented artisans across the breadth of the country and with a little research who knows what maker you’ll find on your holiday doorstep. So follow the hashtag, have a search and like, share, and support where you can.

If you’re visiting Dublin this summer please don’t hesitate to contact me about visiting my showroom in the leafy suburbs of Dublin’s southside. Close to UCD and Dundrum Town Centre, Windy Arbour boasts ample free parking and is serviced by both Luas and Dublin bus or it’s a 50 minute walk from Grafton Street.