As January draws to a close, and that glorious stretch in the evening begins to make it’s return, the topic of the moment here at HQ is the Celtic season of Imbolc! The earth is blooming with excitement as we finally enter the lighter side of the year. Imbolc marks the half-way point between Winter solstice and the Spring equinox, and falls on February second.

The weather in February can often be a bit of a toss-up; so whether you’re out braving the elements, or keeping yourself tucked up and cozy on the couch we have assembled a handful of all-weather favourite products for the season of Imbolc.

Although slightly biased, we believe our House Socks are a brilliant year round staple. These beautiful wool socks are knit in the Glenties, and feature the iconic Donegal flecks throughout a range of bright and cheerful shades. 

They’re the sort of socks you wouldn’t mind giving or getting as a gift!

Don’t let the name deter you, the durability and warmth of these socks makes them an excellent choice for hikes, treks and strolls during these wonderful bright Spring months. We've heard from some customers that they keep one pair for lounging and a second for adventuring - the best of both worlds! 

Speaking of getting out into nature, we’re avid explorers of the Wicklow mountain area, as it’s practically on our doorstep! With it’s beautiful terrain and sights spanning across Dublin, there are few things nicer than a hike on a crisp (and dry) Spring day. 

Domenique, the illustrator behind Maiden Moose shares our love of nature and creates beautiful prints depicting the earthy tones and textures of the Wicklow mountains.  We asked Domenique to create a vista exclusive to Irish Design Shop, and landed on the heart shaped lake of Lough Ouler, which is nestled in the Wicklow mountains. 

This beautiful scene is visible from the Tonelagee trail, and while we wait for the terrain to dry a little before ascending it, the Lough Ouler print ought to keep us inspired!

Saving the best until last is our very own Imbolc soap!

Handcrafted in Ireland, and blended exclusively for us by The Handmade Soap Company this soap is one of four seasonal bars we have created.

The Imbolc scent features a rejuvenating blend of mint and rosemary, a touch of geranium and some lighter notes of vetiver. It’s bright and uplifting, which is always welcome as a new year kicks off.

Long time pal of the shop Lucy Sheridan created the beautiful and energetic illustrations for our entire Celtic Season collection, featuring both our Seasonal Soaps and greeting cards. Chances are you have a sea-swimmer in your life, and if they're brave (or mad) enough to be in the Irish sea at this time of year we think they'll appreciate Lucy's depiction of Imbolc. 

Our Soap for the Seasons gift box was a real hit over the festive period, and we love the idea of the four soaps being rotated throughout the year, with blends to match the energy of each season.

Tell us a little about what you make?

We use luxury natural yarns and blends to knit a wide range of quality knitwear for women, men, and the home. Based in Doolin, Co.Clare, we are passionate about developing products in a sustainable manner. We have also recently opened a visitor centre, allowing our customers an insight into our design and making process.  

Could you describe your studio for us? What is your favourite thing about the space and how do you get into the mindset of making?

The studio is an open plan with lots of space to move around and natural light. I love that it is very quiet here and situated so close to the sea. It is a stunning location all year round. When the weather allows, we like to take our coffee breaks in the garden where our rescue battery hens Elisa, Floppy and Speedy roam freely. Possible new designs, patterns and colourways are discussed and developed here. It is a peaceful space for brainstorming. On a day to day basis, I am motivated to make by the need to keep orders moving otherwise everything piles up!

What is your favourite tool and why?

I always carry a simple latch hook in the studio - it is great for picking up stitches and pulling in threads quickly.

Can you describe the making process and inspiration behind your fisherman knitwear range?

Yarns have their own personalities, so the making process initially starts with matching yarn to the right stitch structure to create a stable fabric -  while keeping in mind the intended end use. I like to contemporize Aran knit by using modern natural yarn blends, innovative stitch structures and finishing processes - the fisherman products we produce are part of this constantly evolving story.

 Ekotree products are available to purchase online here.