Kate XXXXXX wrote:

Irish dance costumes are generally hidious and seem to be
based on some awful offspring of a colision between a
1960's skating
dress and a suit of armour! More upholstery than frock!
They have no
basis in any sort of national costume.

Some of the embroidery patterns are glorious, but the
finished frocks? Ugh! Just *my* opinion, of course.
YMMV...

Kate, you expressed my feelings on the subject exactly! I
love my embroidery machine, but to put it to such use....
NEVER!

--
Beverly
http://ickes.us/default.aspx