Why did many Irish learn to crochet lace?
Irish crochet lace was developed in Ireland in the mid-1800s during the potato famine. The income that their sales provided was a lifeline for many families at this time. Crocheting was a simpler way to make lace using tiny hooks and fine yarns and the techniques were easy to learn.
What is a Romanian cord?
The Romanian cord is a flat cord with a striking texture that is the same on both sides. It’s a perfect option for things like drawstrings, ties, bag handles, straps, or even belts! The easy technique starts with 2 setup stitches, and then is just one simple stitch repeated for the desired length of your cord.
What is Romanian point lace?
Romanian Point Lace consists of a crotchet braid that is tacked to a pattern and then embellished with needle embroidery. All the work is done on the back of the piece. Click on the pictures to enlarge and see detail. Not many supplies are required, you probably have them at home already.
Why is it called Icord?
The I-cord is a tube knitted in the round with two double-pointed needles. Elizabeth Zimmermann named it the Idiot Cord in honor of her accidental discovery of the simple technique. The I-cord is a perfect example of her attitude toward knitting: let it be fun, free of needless complications, and full of discovery.
In Sylvia’s books Romanian Point Lace for Beginners and Romanian Point Lace for Intermediates and Advanced she gives a bit of history. This particular lace came from France, and with its variety of filling stitches it gives the lace maker a lot of freedom to create beautiful laces. It also gave women a way to provide for their families.
What are the different types of point lace?
Probably one of the most recognizable types of point lace is Battenberg lace with is made with a premade tape and embellished with filling stitches and bridges. Lace making can be as simple or as complicated as you want to make it.
What is Gros Point lace?
Gros point de Venice is one of the most complicated and thickest point lace techniques. Probably one of the most recognizable types of point lace is Battenberg lace with is made with a premade tape and embellished with filling stitches and bridges.