Brat Bríde Workshop

Brat Bríde Workshop

A St Brigid Gathering

Workshop Description

Join us for a cosy and creative gathering to honour the ancient Irish tradition of the Brat Bríde—a cloth left outside overnight to receive Brigid’s blessing of protection, healing, and abundance for the year ahead.

Using Irish linens, vintage-inspired prints, and carefully chosen trims, participants will create their own personal Brat Bríde to place outdoors or on a windowsill on St Brigid’s Eve. This is a relaxed, social workshop—a time to hang out, make, and mark the turning of the season together.

No sewing experience is needed.

What You’ll Do

• Learn the folklore and meaning of the Brat Bríde
• Choose from a curated selection of Irish linen fabrics
• Embellish your cloth with lace, ribbons, embroidery threads, and trims
• Add personal symbols, intentions, or blessings for the year ahead
• Prepare your Brat Bríde to be left out overnight to welcome St Brigid

Materials Provided

• Irish linen base cloths (various colours & textures)
• Printed fabrics and heritage-inspired patterns
• Trims: lace, ribbon, braid, threads
• Hand-stitching supplies (needle, thread, scissors)
• Optional stencils or symbols linked to Brigid (sun, flame, cross, well)

Participants are also welcome to bring:

• A small piece of meaningful fabric
• A charm or ribbon to incorporate

Workshop Flow (Example)

1. Welcome & Tea – arrive, settle in, warm drinks
2. Story & Tradition – the history of St Brigid and the Brat Bríde
3. Making Time – guided but unhurried creating
4. Intention Setting – quietly reflect on what you wish to invite for the year
5. Closing Moment – preparing your Brat Bríde for the eve

What You’ll Leave With

• Your own handmade Brat Bríde
• A deeper connection to St Brigid’s traditions
• A meaningful ritual to carry into the year ahead

Come along, slow down, and enjoy a few creative hours making something both beautiful and useful in Portobello, Dublin 8.