Mountmellick Embroidery takes its name from the Irish Midlands town of Mountmellick Co. Laois where it evolved and developed in the early part of the nineteenth Century. The definite style of white-work has subtle richness and great elegance. The characteristics of Mountmellick embroidery are richly worked stitching in white matt cotton thread worked on a smooth cotton satin ‘jean’, the whole being traditionally set off by the characteristic knotted fringe. While up to forty different stitches have been recorded from old pieces, it was more usual to use only ten or so.

Mountmellick Work has enjoyed a renaissance in Ireland in recent years and its many uses include mats, bed covers, christening robes and ring pillows.

Go to the Gallery to see examples of Mountmellick Lace.