Mademoiselle Riego de la Brachardière

Mademoiselle Riego de la Brachardière was a pioneering figure in the world of crochet, best known for publishing the first known crochet book in 1846, titled 'Knitting, Crochet and Netting.' Of French-Irish descent, she played a crucial role in elevating the craft from a domestic pastime to a respected art form, contributing various patterns and designs that influenced generations of crafters. Her work coincided with a growing interest in handcrafts and DIY culture, particularly during the 19th century when activities such as crochet began to gain popularity among women, including notable figures like Queen Victoria.