Reticule Workshop
Event Details
Reticule Workshop
Create Your Own Reticule
Sunday, 15th November 2026
Date & Time
Including a one hour break
Venue
Upstairs in the Maria Edgeworth Centre, Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford, N39 E3C8
About the Event
5 hours
Step into the world of the Regency and discover the art of creating your own hand-sewn reticule — the elegant little drawstring bags carried by women in the early 19th century.
With their dresses lacking practical pockets, Regency women relied on reticules to carry their essentials. Often beautifully decorated and made from delicate fabrics, they became an important part of a fashionable outfit.
In this relaxed, hands-on workshop, you’ll create your own Regency-inspired reticule using traditional hand-sewing techniques. You’ll be guided through each stage, from preparing the fabric and stitching the bag to adding the drawstring and finishing details.
Imagine carrying your own handmade reticule on a Regency stroll — perhaps with a letter, handkerchief or other small treasure tucked inside.
No previous sewing experience is necessary. Beginners are very welcome.
What do I need to bring?
What do I need to bring?
- 0.5 m “fancy” fabric (pre-ironed for clean cuts)
- 0.5 m plain (white) lining fabric (e.g. old pillowcase)
- 1.5 m narrow ribbon for the drawstring
- Hand-sewing needles
- Thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Thimble
- Measuring tape or ruler
Tickets
- €45
- Spaces are limited
- Pre booking necessary
Facilitator
Melissa Shiels
Melissa Shiels is a recent doctoral candidate, awarded her PhD from UCC in 16th-century Irish history, focusing on gift exchange and material culture. She has been making historical clothing since 2002, recreating clothing from the Viking, Medieval, Tudor/Elizabethan, Georgian, Regency, and Victorian periods. Melissa gives costumed talks for a wide range of audiences, both academic and non-academic, speaking in museums, libraries, schools, literary festivals, as well as university lectures.
This event is kindly supported by the Heritage Organisation Support Fund.
Notice: Photography and Videography in Progress
Please be aware that photographs and videos are being taken during this event. These may be used for advertising, promotional, or marketing purposes by the facilitators.
By entering the festival grounds, you consent to your image being captured and used in such materials.
If you have concerns or prefer not to appear in any materials, please speak to a member of staff.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!