At Magee Weaving, our mill in Donegal, and Magee 1866, we have been at the heart of a community weaving authentic Donegal Tweed for over a century. Donegal Tweed is woven into our DNA.
A traditional woollen fabric instantly recognisable by its characteristic nepps, those distinctive flecks of colour spun directly into the yarn, Donegal Tweed is rooted in the culture, craftsmanship and community of County Donegal. Its heritage deserves protection. Its future is equally promising: crafted from natural fibres that are both biodegradable and renewable, Donegal Tweed is a fabric built for a more sustainable world.
Donegal tweed being created in the Magee Weaving mill in Donegal town. Patrick Temple, CEO of Magee Weaving.
WHAT IS PGI STATUS AND WHY DOES IT MATTER FOR DONEGAL TWEED?
The Donegal Tweed industry is working towards securing a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), a prestigious EU designation that would ensure only fabric woven in County Donegal can legally be called Donegal Tweed.
The Donegal Tweed Association, comprising of Magee Weaving, Molloy & Sons, Studio Donegal, McNutt of Donegal and Eddie Doherty, is seeking this recognition following a European Commission decision to broaden the categories of goods eligible for PGI protection.
As Patrick Temple, CEO of Magee Weaving, explains:
"The wonderful thing about a PGI is that it creates a pure message to the consumer and they know they're buying a genuine fabric woven in Donegal."
This designation would be a landmark moment for our craft, our county and our community. We'll continue working alongside our partners to protect the skills, culture and industry that make Donegal Tweed truly unique. Watch this space.
“The wonderful thing about a PGI is that it creates a pure message to the consumer and they know they're buying a genuine fabric woven in Donegal.”
Patrick Temple, CEO Magee Weaving
Mist rising over Mount Errigal, the Magee Weaving Donegal tweed archive books.
The Donegal Tweed Association includes: Magee Weaving, Studio Donegal, Molloy & Sons, McNutt and Eddie Doherty.
Rolling out heather hued Donegal tweed in herringbone pattern in the Magee Weaving mill. Blooming heather as seen in the Donegal landscape.