Certificate in Donegal Weaving
NFQ Level 5
- Full-Time
- In-Person
- 41 Weeks
Available Locations:
- Applications now closed. We’ll be back with new dates shortly.
Online applicants will be redirected to fetchcourses.ie to complete the application process.
What You'll Learn
Students will gain the skills and craftsmanship of a Donegal weaver, ensuring continuity of skills for these industries, and you will have the opportunity to:
- Learn the origins of Donegal Tweed.
- Understand how mills choose tweed patterns.
- Learn the weaving process and the methods/looms used.
- Understand the skills needed to weave tweed.
- Know the mending and finishing processes for tweed
You will learn through research, observation, hands-on experience, and practical activities.
This course was developed in consultation with Donegal Tweed powerhouses, including Magee Clothing, McNutt of Donegal, Molloy and Sons Weaving and Studio Donegal. It is delivered by Valerie Taylor and John Heena, who bring a vast range of experience in weaving, sewing and textiles together with industry connections.
This course includes 12 weeks of work placement, allowing you to develop your practical skills and apply your learning in a real working environment.
Evidence requirements include portfolios showing knowledge of techniques in the sector.
This qualification is accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). On successful completion of this course, you will receive a Level 6 Certificate on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF), which is comparable to a Level 5 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)
On completion of the relevant module, you will also receive the City and Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Design and Craft – Fashion (Sewing Machine Techniques) which is comparable to a Level 3 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)
Tá Cúrsaí Oiliúna arna gcomhchistiú ag Rialtas na hÉireann agus an Aontas Eorpach. #EUinMyRegion
Traineeships are co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union. #EUinMyRegion
Timetable & Modules
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Tue | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Wed | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Thu | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Fri | ✔ |
This course will take place in-person, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and half-days on Friday.
| Module | Title |
| 006805 | Manual Handling for Workplace |
| 10001 | Course Induction |
| DLCareerPlan | Career Planning |
| STN0076 | PHECC – First Aid Response |
| SQA – J48H 04 | SQA – An Introduction to the Weaving Industry |
| SQA – J48J 04 | SQA – An Introduction to the Preparation for Weaving |
| SQA – J48K 04 | SQA – An Introduction to Weaving and Production Techniques |
| SQA – J48L 04 | SQA – An Introduction to Finishing Techniques, Processes & Products |
| 7716 | C&G – Design for Craft |
| 7716-04 | C&G – Sewing Machine Techniques |
| 7716 | C&G – Design for Craft |
| 7716-04 | C&G – Sewing Machine Techniques |
Progression / Career
- Commercial Weaver: Working in companies specialising in tweed production.
- Handweaver or Power Loom Operator: Applying niche skills like loom tuning, warping, and finishing to contribute to the industry.
- Textile Designer: Creating designs for woven fabrics in the fashion and interior design sectors.
- Craftsperson or Artisan Weaver: Producing bespoke woven items for small-scale or high-end markets.
- Independent Weaver: Establishing a personal weaving business to create and sell handmade woven products.
- Collaborator with Local Businesses: Partnering with retailers or fashion designers to showcase unique woven textiles.
- Weaving Instructor or Mentor: Sharing knowledge by teaching traditional weaving techniques to others.
- Tourism/Cultural Preservationist: Promoting and preserving Donegal weaving as part of Ireland’s cultural heritage.
Entry Requirements
- You must have successfully completed the Junior Certificate or equivalent qualification. Alternatively, you need to be able to demonstrate knowledge, skill and competence equivalent to NFQ Level 4 when accessing a Level 5 course.
- Good hand-eye co-ordination and good manual dexterity required. Applicants must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject.
- Some weaving knowledge and experience would be beneficial but not essential to gaining access to this course.
- According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL), non-native English speakers need a B2 level in writing, reading, listening, and speaking.
Eligibility
Non-EU/EEA applicants need permission to work in Ireland. For more details, see our eligibility section.
Cost / Fees
You may be eligible for reduced course fees or a fee waiver (i.e. no cost).
We will talk to you about the possible low/no cost fees options during your application process.
Share This Course:
Real Students, Real Results!
“…one of the best decisions I ever made in my life. Part of my reason for coming up to Donegal was that weaving is an indigenous craft that is dying out, but it’s part of my Irish blood and culture. I was working a full-time job in Dublin city and weaving crios belts as a hobby. It was time for a change, I said to myself, instead of getting another job and paycheck I needed to follow my heart and get up to Donegal. I saw the course, I got an interview, I quit my job, and that was it. There are good job options locally around the area. You couldn’t ask for a better tutor, John [Heena] is so patient and full of knowledge; you can ask him anything and he wouldn’t need a book or a calculator to tell you what’s what.”
Dean Stapleton
“Weaving is a craft to master over years. When I started selling, I realised that I needed to up my skills. I wanted to be immersed in the environment of weaving and to get the certificate since it’s [development was supported] by Harris Tweed in Scotland.It’s been really good for me because it’s given me more time to learn how to warp and use different colourways. I’ve met so many tourists from around the world. Their faces light up when they see the looms going. “There is a market for handwoven Donegal tweed, just like people appreciate other crafts such as basket making and ceramics.That’s why this course is so important, to keep this craft alive in Donegal, and we are so fortunate to have mentors to learn all the ways. My goal would be to find a studio and set up a website.”
Léila Worth
Need Help Applying For a Course at Donegal College?
If you are unsure about what course to do or need help in finding out which level is most appropriate for you then our admissions team are here to help you….
Courses FAQ's
Who can apply for Donegal College courses?
Our courses are open to school leavers, lifelong learners, job seekers, employees, and employers looking to upskill or reskill.
How do I apply for a course?
You can make your applications for full-time and part-time courses online; you can start the process here on the Donegal College website. Click ‘APPLY‘ on the course of your choice; this redirects you to Fetchcourses.ie, where your application will be processed using the FETCH Courses website and system.
If you haven’t signed up for a FETCH account, you’ll be required to do so first; this is a one-time setup.
Are the Donegal College courses accredited?
Yes. Many of our courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), typically Levels 4–6, as well as awards from ILM, City & Guilds, and other industry-recognised bodies.
Where do the courses take place?
Courses are delivered across Donegal at one of our 19 Donegal College campuses, certain courses are delivered in community venues in your local area, various courses are delivered online or through blended learning, and training can be offered on-site at your business, depending on the course.
Can I apply for an Apprenticeship?
The first step is to secure a job with an approved apprentice employer. An Apprenticeship is a three-way contract of employment between you, your employer and SOLAS, with on-the-job and off-the-job training delivered in phases. Full details are available on: www.apprenticeship.ie
To find out more about becoming an apprentice or an approved apprentice employer please contact our Apprenticeship Services Team: Tel: 074 9120500 or Email: apprenticeship@donegaletb.ie