Former journalist Jamie Monagan weaving her way to business success

When she moved to Cork from the USA 14 years ago, former journalist Jamie Monagan brought her favourite ‘blankie’ with her — now, thanks to a special programme for wannabe female entrepreneurs, she’s about to launch a business making designer throws.

Custom-made throws are hugely popular in the States, says Monagan, who came up with the idea a year ago when she realised that she never saw custom-made cotton throws on sale in Ireland: “I had this light-bulb moment — why do these products not exist in Ireland?” she said.

Images, text and logos can all be woven into the throws. “You can weave Shandon Steeple, City Hall or Patrick Street into a blanket for example,” explains Monagan.