Rugs of Ireland has officially unveiled its inaugural collection of 57 limited edition rugs that are handcrafted in County Donegal and inspired by the intricate beauty of the Book of Kells. Today, December 18th, is the LAST CHANCE to order these pieces of artwork in time for Christmas. These unique homeware pieces blend sustainably sourced Irish linen and wool to offer a tangible connection to heritage, designed to last for generations.
Dúchas, created by Rugs of Ireland, is a collection of heirloom Irish rugs, handcrafted to honor the art, land, and cultural heritage of Ireland - Fahan, County Donegal, Ireland.
Rugs of Ireland has announced the launch of its inaugural collection, Dúchas, with a limited Launch Edition run of 57 heirloom rugs, designed, assembled, and finished by hand in Ireland. Drawing inspiration directly from ancient Celtic manuscripts, including the Book of Kells, the collection represents a new chapter in Irish luxury homeware, merging Ireland's most recognisable art form with contemporary interior refinement.
The Gaelic word “Dúchas” translates to English as “heritage” or “birthright”. It’s a fitting name for a collection that seeks to borrow from ancient Celtic culture and to carry it forward into modern homes. Each piece features pattern work rooted in the highest forms of Irish visual culture, inspired by illuminated gospel pages, knot forms, and the symbolic geometry carved into stone and metalwork across early Ireland.
A return to patience in a fast world
Rugs of Ireland was founded with a singular intention: to create exceptional pieces that “feel like home” for those who take pride in their Irish identity. The brand rejects fast production and trend cycles, instead choosing slow craftsmanship that mirrors the creation of the medieval manuscripts that inspire its work. The rugs are made using Axminster woven fabric for longevity, a choice that ensures durability for decades of family life. Wool and linen were the materials of choice, not only for their exceptional properties for use in a rug, but also for their deep connection to textiles in Ireland, with linen being made in Ireland for centuries and wool since the Bronze Age.
Hand applying our Irish twill linen backing to a rug
"Our ancestors spent years illuminating manuscripts with devotion and care. We felt the only way to honour that legacy was to approach design the same way. A few pieces, made slowly and involving skilled handwork," says co-founder Sharon Forbes.
Sewing bound corners by hand.
Created beside ancient stone and sea
An Grianán Aileach, County Donegal.
Production takes place in Fahan, Inishowen, overlooking Lough Swilly and within reach of ancient ringforts and inscribed stones. This place, steeped in history, informs the creative process as much as craft technique does. “We believe that the work we complete in Fahan, surrounded by ancient Celtic landmarks such as an Grianan Aileach and Fahan Mura, all overlooking the beautiful Donegal coastline, adds a layer of authenticity to our products that a mass-produced version could never achieve," says co-founder Seán.
Muted, earthy palettes reference the Irish landscape in tones of moss, sand, and coastal stone. The collection has been styled for the modern home, created to integrate naturally into contemporary interior design without compromising historical integrity.
A collector release
Only 57 rugs from the Dúchas collection will be available in the launch edition run. Future releases will remain low volume to ensure exclusivity. Each rug arrives in presentation packaging that elevates the unboxing experience: a velvet rug bag enclosed within a wooden gift box, assembled and stained by hand in Donegal. Rugs of Ireland has pledged to plant a native Irish tree for every rug purchase, helping to restore Ireland’s ancient forestry that our ancestors would have known and loved.
Collection highlights
Teallach
Teallach.
Named for the hearth, the traditional heart of the Irish home. A central pattern taken from the Book of Kells makes this the signature piece of the inaugural launch.
Ríona
Ríona.
A 3x12ft runner taking design inspiration from the Ardagh Chalice. Regal, stately, suited to large hallways, kitchen and bedroom settings.
Isteach
Isteach.
A smaller piece, using the triquetra as a welcome symbol of continuity and return.
Rugs will be available in three core formats
- Area rugs for living spaces & shared rooms available in 4x6ft, 6x9ft and 8x10ft
- Runners in 2x8ft and 3x12ft
- Small in 1.5x2ft and 2x3ft
Availability
Rugs of Ireland has secured full United States distribution with fast, reliable fulfilment. Every order arrives free within 4 days, with delivery duties paid and no additional charges to the customer at any stage of the journey.
Order on December 18th in order to receive a Rugs of Ireland Dúchas collection by Christmas.
Pieces will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Explore the full collection at www.rugsofireland.com. Follow their story on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
