A traditional doll from the Aran Islands
This is an interesting article via Irish Archaeology about an Aran Islands doll. For artists and fiber artists, it offers a glimpse into the simplest of ways to create with what you have…
On our tours we often visit the Aran Islands, a place of magic and mystery, old stone forts and fields separated with stones brought from the sea.
This beautiful little doll comes from Inisheer on the Aran Islands. In 1939 it was handed into the folklore collections of theNational Museum of Ireland, where it is now stored in Castlebar, Co. Mayo. Simply made, the body of the doll is fashioned from a single piece of timber, most likely driftwood, that was roughly shaped. Eyes are provided by two iron tacks/nails, which are hammered into the ‘face’. The doll is dressed in a colourful woollen head-scarf, shawl and felt dress that mirrors Aran Island clothing of the 1930s (see image below). Although rudimentary in nature, it is not hard to imagine how this small doll was once a much loved toy.
by on October 6, 2015 in Archaeology blogs, Irish treasures
places we have visited as inspiration, composing from their “visual” notes. After laying the fleece on a pre-felt background, being careful to add enough layers, we begin felting. Layers and colors are built up and adjusted to create a background. 
successful piece. We take tie to step back and discuss the progress, make adjustments and continue on. Felting this way is so satisfying and exciting! While 
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