Shirt Tales NI ​is set within the storied walls of First Derry Presbyterian Church, known locally as "First Derry". This evocative, place rooted experience, celebrates Derry's proud shirt making legacy and the quiet power of community stitching. Guests are invited to slow down, sit together, and sew while absorbing the interwoven stories of industrial innovation, craftsmanship and human connection. 

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Held in a former girl’s school in the city the first sewing lesson during your visit is taken from the original text book printed from 1831 'The National Female Schools of Ireland Needlework and Cutting Out Simple Directions', which was published and distributed to all National Model Female Schools from 1835.

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Hosted by Catherine and Margaret, as a passionate mother and daughter team with deep ties to the venue, this experience combines heritage storytelling, participative craft, gentle humour and warm hospitality in one of the city's most distinctive spaces. While not a religious experience it happens to take place in a sacred site, rich with textile reliance, architectural charm and local pride. 

 

This is a unique experience. We welcome all to join us and contribute to keeping this history alive.