Looking for creative workshops in Kilkenny or something different to do this summer?
Join us at the Medieval Mile Museum for a fascinating evening exploring one of the oldest textile traditions in human history as part of the Six After 6 Summer Cultural Series.
Led by experimental archaeologist Madison Blankenship, this hands-on Nålbinding & Cordage Workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn historic craft skills within the remarkable surroundings of St Mary’s Church, right in the heart of Ireland’s Medieval Mile.
What is Nålbinding?
Dating back to approximately 6500 BCE, nålbinding is an ancient yarn-working technique that predates both knitting and crochet. Found across many cultures throughout the ancient world and often associated with Viking Age Nordic clothing, nålbinding was used to create warm, durable textiles long before modern knitting needles existed.
During this workshop, participants will also learn the traditional craft of cordage making, using a mixture of nettle and alpaca fibres to understand how strong ropes, ties and lacing were created by cultures across the world. This engaging workshop offers more than a craft lesson. It provides an opportunity to slow down, learn historic skills and experience how creativity and practical knowledge shaped everyday life centuries ago.
Learn with Madison Blankenship
Experimental archaeologist Madison Blankenship will guide participants through both techniques, sharing the history, practical uses, and cultural importance of these ancient skills. Whether you are completely new to historic crafts or already enjoy textiles and heritage making, this welcoming workshop is suitable for all skill levels.
Participants will leave with:
- Their own starter project
- A traditional nålbinding needle
- New practical skills to continue at home
Event Details
Date: Friday 12 June
Time: 6 pm
Location: Medieval Mile Museum, Kilkenny
Tickets: €15 per person |15 places available | 18+
All materials included. Places are limited and advance booking is strongly recommended.
Click Here to Book Your Place
Places are limited and advance booking is strongly recommended.
Book now and discover one of the world’s oldest textile traditions in the heart of Medieval Kilkenny.
Six After 6 Summer Cultural Series
The 6 After 6 Summer Cultural Series offers a unique opportunity to enjoy creative workshops and evening cultural experiences in Kilkenny within some of the city’s most historic and inspiring settings.
Featuring 36 free and ticketed events from June to early September, the Six After 6 – Summer Cultural Series brings many of Kilkenny’s leading visitor attractions to life after hours, creating memorable evenings for both locals and visitors throughout the summer.
The six attractions taking part in the series are:
◆ Medieval Mile Museum
◆ Butler House & Garden
◆ Smithwick’s Experience
◆ Rothe House
◆ St Canice’s Cathedral
◆ Butler Gallery
Whether you are seeking a new hobby, a cultural evening out or simply looking for something different to do in Kilkenny, the Six After 6 programme offers a rich mix of creativity, heritage and discovery across the city.
At the Medieval Mile Museum, our workshops provide an inspiring opportunity to connect with medieval history through making, learning and creativity in the remarkable surroundings of St Mary’s Church.
The Six after 6 – Summer Cultural Series is supported by Kilkenny County Council, Fáilte Ireland – Ireland’s Ancient East and the Kilkenny Night Time Economy Pilot.
Discover more about Medieval Kilkenny through our
guided tours, immersive exhibits, and special events.
Click here to book your visit today.
For more info
Visit: www.medievalmilemuseum.ie
Call: 056 781 7022 | Email: info@medievalmilemuseum.ie