About Me

I’m Brooke, a passionate knitter based in the beautiful city of Kilkenny, Ireland. I take great pride in crafting my products using 100% merino wool sourced from Donegal Yarns, known for its exceptional quality and softness. Each piece I create reflects my love for knitting and attention to detail, making them not only warm and cozy but also a joy to wear.

  • I spent several years in Belfast, where I earned my MSc in Animal Behaviour and Welfare from Queen's University. The vibrant atmosphere of the city prompted me to remain there for nearly a decade. During that time, I worked in the veterinary field and volunteered with the Cats Protection League.

    In November 2019, as the pandemic began to unfold and Brexit approached, I made the decision to return to my hometown of Kilkenny. Committed to making the most of lockdown, I pursued further education. In 2021, I completed a first-class honours postgraduate degree in graphic design at Carlow IT, marking a natural progression into digital art as a complement to my existing artistic practice.

My Inspiration

During the lockdown, I decided to pick up a new hobby and learned to hand knit, inspired by my recently adopted senior dog, Roxy. I wanted to create a cozy jumper for her, something that would keep her warm during the chilly days. Creating that special jumper not only deepened my connection with Roxy but also filled those quiet days with creativity and purpose. It was such a joy to see her snuggly and stylish in something made with love!

  • Graphic design has always been a passion of mine, particularly in the realm of brand identity. However, everything transformed the day Roxy, my little senior Yorkshire Terrier, joined my life. It was through her that I discovered my true muse: knitting. Roxy came with her own set of challenges, which taught me the value of patience as we slowly built our bond. As we navigated those early days together, I picked up my knitting needles and, with the help of YouTube and my mum, created a cozy jumper just for her.

    In those quiet moments, as we sat side by side, a spark ignited within Roxy. After many dog jumpers and countless memories, that bond deepened into something truly special. Although Roxy aged quickly in our four years together and sadly left us in December 2024, she remains a significant part of my journey and my inspiration for Beatrice Rose Design.

    Back to August 2022, I had the vision to establish Kilkenny's one and only knitting social group, Knit Happens. This vibrant community brings together individuals of all skill levels, uniting us in our shared love for the craft and its creativity. The group has continued to grow, providing a warm welcome to newcomers and ensuring that the art of knitting flourishes. Roxy’s spirit lives on in this beautiful tapestry of connection and inspiration, reminding us all to embrace our passions and support one another.

Beatrice Rose Design

After hard work and dedication, I proudly launched my small business, Beatrice Rose Design, in December 2023 at the charming Mountain View Markets in Co. Kilkenny. Since that day, I’ve ventured across the South East of Ireland, exploring various craft markets and bringing my unique designs to life in vibrant, bustling atmospheres. Each market has offered me the opportunity to connect with amazing customers, fabulous organisers and fellow makers, sharing stories and inspirations along the way. As the business continues to grow, I'm excited to see where this journey takes me and to share more of my passion with the world!

  • In the initial phases of Knit Happens, I was introduced to flatbed knitting machines, which ignited a passionate interest in this craft. Without hesitation, I acquired a basic beginner machine and embarked on an extensive learning journey. Driven by a desire learn, I dedicated time and effort to mastering the techniques involved. This commitment allowed me to progress to professional machines quickly, all while maintaining a clear objective: to become a self-employed small business owner.

    Beatrice Rose, my paternal grandmother, played a significant role during World War II as a "bomb girl" in the 1940s; our very own Rosie the Riveter. She was part of the remarkable women’s movement that shaped history. In tribute to her legacy, I decided to name my business after her.

    Working exclusively with Donegal Yarns' 100% merino wool, I fell in love with their stunning array of colors. As an artistic and visual person, I recognised the vibrant potential that awaited me. This palette fueled my imagination and led to an explosion of creativity in my design process, shaping a distinctive style that defines my collection.

    In December 2023, I proudly launched Beatrice Rose Design at the vibrant Mountain View Markets in Ballyhale, Co. Kilkenny. This market, known for its enthusiastic community and support for local artisans, provided the perfect backdrop for my debut. The reception exceeded all my expectations, with visitors expressing genuine excitement about my unique designs and craftsmanship. This incredible feedback affirmed that all the late nights and hard work I dedicated to building my brand were truly worthwhile, marking a significant milestone in my journey as a small business owner.

    Beatrice Rose Design is thriving, captivating not only fashion-forward individuals but also enthusiasts of a diverse range of outdoor activities. Getting involved in craft markets all around the South East of Ireland has really helped shine a spotlight on my brand! It's been an exciting journey, and I feel privileged to be a favourite choice for so many wonderful customers.