A NEST LIKE NO OTHER: EXPLORING CUCKOO CRAFT AND DESIGN IN KINVARA
Once upon a time there was a spectacular shop nestled in the heart of Kinvara village called Cuckoo Craft and Design. Much like the bird of its namesake this store has made a nest in a well known village building and gathered treasures from other creators around the country, bringing them all together under one roof. With a vibrant, thoughtful and delightful haberdashery of crafts to browse, there is certainly something for everyone here. It has a feel of somewhere fresh and bright, while also holding that charm of your Grandmothers house. That homely feel originates from the business being run by Daughter and Mother duo, Elaine and Valerie. Oh, and who could forget one of the most important members of the team Penny, taking the helm behind the desk, she’s always ready to say hello, even when her paws are tired after her morning stroll.
What I love about this store is that one minute you’re holding a delicately embroidered brooch and the next you’re submerging yourself in the world and prints of Enda Burke, or checking the time on some fancy clocks. There are gorgeous vegan candles from my favourite Irish maker Milis, Delicate pieces from Burren flower fairies, luxurious favourites from Fiain, a host of crafted Teddy Bears lovingly stitched together looking for their forever homes, the best and most unique socks from Irish Socksciety, romantic and comforting scents and sustainable sets from Jo Browne, soap that smells and looks so good you could almost eat it (but please don’t, eeek) from one of my favourite soap companies Palm Free Irish soap, colourful jewellery from Arty Smarty, knitted crafts from Elaine’s Mama (who also has a stall at the market), the most adorable tiny sushis brought to life by Bláithín Breathnach, and intricate miniature and authentic to scale hot air balloons floating dreamlike above it all. Yet what you’ve just read is only a tiny glimpse into this world, it really is one of those places that you have to visit to get the full experience.
You know the magical places hidden in old chidren’s fairytales and folklores? – this shop makes me imagine what it would be like to be miniature and explore every inch of this world which Elaine has created, traversing the building from the floor up along the walls of natural hanging fabrics. This is a feeling I get when I really love a space, I want to imagine it from every possible angle and dimension. There is something really enchanting, magical and endearing about dreaming up what it would be like stepping into those hot air balloons, or sitting on the edge of one of the pottery bowls. The pieces throughout the shop transcend age and time, everyone from children to adults will find wonder here, it brings out the playful side in all its visitors and that’s something not many places can offer. Plus, the window displays are always enchanting!
Another favourite feature of mine is how the shelves are adorned with prints from Irish illustrators like Rachel Corcoran and designers such as Fat Lemon prints, there is such love for the work that goes into being an independent supplier in this store, and Elaine recognises and values what it takes to run your own small business, especially in the current climate. I get such a sense of appreciation and love for being happy, spending your days doing what you love, and valuing your art when I’m here; it makes me remember to take it slow, have some fun and value my time. These carefully curated, unique and bespoke products which Cuckoo showcases from independent Irish artists and designers allows the shop to give a nod to Irish nostalgia while maintaining a contemporary and modern style.
On Fridays, after I’ve collected my vegan treats from the Kinvara Farmers Market there is really nothing like popping into Elaine and seeing what new treasures are available, there’s always something to brighten my mood and I love the relaxed, fun and familiar atmosphere of the shop; you can totally pop in for a chat, give Penny a little cuddle and have a browse. This treasure trove is on the top of my list when I’m thinking of gifts for those I adore. There is such a variety of products within a wide price range available and the team (Doggo and all) are always happy to find something that suits your mood.
If you’d like to keep up to date with the day to day happenings in this little craft haven, you can follow along on the Cuckoo Instagram for more musings, or browse their website here and be sure to pop by when you’re in the village to see the magic yourself.
