Getting Started: How to Make Lace

Welcome to the wonderful world of lacemaking! This ancient craft has been practiced for centuries, creating some of the most beautiful and intricate textiles known to humanity.

What is Lace?

Lace is an openwork fabric, patterned with open holes in the work, made by machine or by hand. The holes can be formed via removal of threads or cloth from a previously woven fabric, but more often lace is built up from a series of looped, twisted, braided, or woven threads.

Types of Lace

There are many different types of lace, but the main categories include:

Bobbin Lace

• Also known as pillow lace
• Made using a pillow and bobbins
• Threads are woven together using a pattern pricked into parchment

Needle Lace

• Made using a needle and thread
• Built up from a series of buttonhole stitches
• Often considered the most prestigious form of lace

Tatting

• Made using shuttles or needles
• Creates a series of knots and loops
• Portable and relatively quick to learn

What You’ll Need to Get Started

For Bobbin Lace:

• A lace pillow (cushion)
• Bobbins (usually 12-20 to start)
• Pins
• Thread (linen or cotton)
• Pattern (pricking)
• Pricker for making holes in patterns

For Needle Lace:

• Needles (tapestry needles work well)
• Thread (fine cotton or linen)
• Small scissors
• Pattern or design

For Tatting:

• Tatting shuttles or needle
• Thread (cotton tatting thread)
• Small scissors
• Pattern book

Your First Steps

1. Choose Your Technique: Start with one type of lace to avoid confusion
2. Get Proper Instruction: Consider joining a local group or taking a class
3. Start Simple: Begin with basic patterns and techniques
4. Practice Regularly: Like any craft, regular practice improves your skills
5. Be Patient: Lacemaking requires patience and precision

Finding Help and Community

The Lace Guild offers extensive support for beginners:

• Local Groups: Find lacemaking groups in your area
• Teachers: Access our list of qualified teachers
• Magazines: Our “Early Days in Lacemaking” magazine is perfect for beginners
• Library: Borrow books and resources to expand your knowledge

Join Our Community

Ready to start your lacemaking journey? Become a member of The Lace Guild and gain access to:

• Quarterly magazines with patterns and techniques
• Local group information
• Teacher recommendations
• Library borrowing privileges
• Expert advice and support

The world of lace is waiting for you to explore it!