Using floral and geometric designs, often in blue and white threads, pieces decorated in this style were exhibited in Ireland, England and America.

Founded in 1892 in Newhall, Ennis by Florence Vere O'Brien,[1][2][3] its purpose was to provide training in embroidery for girls and young women, enabling them to have independent incomes in their futures.

[7] It took up to two years for a student to become proficient, but once she had gained the skills she could earn up to fourteen shillings per week (in 1908 for example).

[10] These designs were initially created by either Vere O'Brien or her sister,[11] though by 1923 Florence's daughters Jenny and Flora had taken over.

[5] Queen Victoria purchased pieces in 1900[5] and her collection included twelve smocked dresses for her grandchildren.

[5] Examples of embroidery and smocking were displayed in the Large Hall and the Home Industries pavilions at the Irish International Exhibition in Dublin in 1907.