The Craft Shop Bantry

Christine opened The Craft Shop in Bantry in 1974 and still gathers work by artisans she has collaborated with for decades. Her daughter Colleen now helps choose the collection and introduces new names. The result connects West Cork with makers elsewhere in Ireland, from ceramics and wood to copper, glass, and jewelry.

Ceramics provide a route through different styles. Nicholas Mosse contributes bowls and cups in patterns such as Fuchsia and Wild Flower Meadow. Rosemarie Durr develops blue and jade pieces, while Jackie Dee adds Hug Mugs. Anne Hayes’s animals and Joanne Robey’s sculptures sit alongside other functional and decorative work.

Metal and wood have their own presence. Paddy McCormack makes copper bangles, wall sconces, candleholders, and sculptural lamps. John Fox creates turned pieces and alder lamps, some retaining their bark. Baskets, bowls, boards, and wood carvings broaden a selection in which each material carries its maker’s signature.

Jewelry includes earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, with Brenda Hoey collections and other designers. Jerpoint Glass blown glass, Rory Connor knives, and Kitt Keawwantha felt pieces complete the offering. Candles and skincare products add everyday objects to the craft collection.

The shop combines these pieces with footwear. It carries Birkenstock models such as Arizona, Boston, and Mayari in different finishes, alongside Blundstone boots and handmade shoes. Bags, wallets, and belts broaden the accessories. The selection distinguishes Irish artisan objects from the footwear brands also sold in the store.

The shop is at 11 Glengarriff Road, about 400 meters from Wolfe Tone Square in Bantry. Christine and Colleen describe it as a space they continually rearrange to present pieces and discover new makers. A visit allows finishes, forms, and materials to be seen, while the online catalog organizes products by maker and object type.

Store vouchers and website-only digital gift cards are different gifting formats. Online sales include shipping and returns information. The Craft Shop maintains a personally selected collection: objects chosen for their material craftsmanship and authorship, bringing a piece of West Cork and Irish craft to a home or gift.