The romance of lace
Perhaps it's the touch of romance it adds. Or the way light filters through it, suffused and softened. For others, it reminds them of the home of a beloved grandmother or a gentler time. The delicate threads, twisted and knotted, become a work of art, whether they are draped over a table or hanging in a window. In its broadest definition, lace actually refers to any openwork techniques that could include weaving, crochet or knitting. However, there are some needlework techniques that create only openwork. These are needle lace and bobbin lace. Needle lace is a single thread worked by looping, twisting and knotting. Bobbin lace is created by multiple threads wound on a hand-held bobbin and affixed to a pillow with pins. (This is also referred to as pillow lace by some.) Bobbin lace is more like weaving while needle lace is more like sewing. "There has always been an interest in lace but in the past few years, it has gained popularity," said Judy Tackett, owner and manager of Attic Delights, an Orange-based antique shop that specializes in vintage lace and linens. Today, Tackett sees laces for a variety of uses: doili
Other sturdier pieces can be washed on the gentle cycle in a washing machine. But according to Tackett, if in doubt, it's better not to wash a piece of lace than risk damaging it. "It's a very exacting and time-consuming process," said Tackett. "Unfortunately, many of us don't have the time or patience." The ways lace is used today might surprise some of its creators. Lace hankies are used as curtains hanging from a ribbon or clothesline. Or they're used as decorative elements on pillows...or sewed together to form quilts or coverlets. Some use them to trim cabinets, adding a touch or elegance or softness. "It's very feminine," said Tackett. "I've even seen people use a piece of tatting along curtain shades or as a curtain pull. People are always finding new ways to incorporate old lace into their decorating scheme." One important rule to observe is that the lighter the weight, the finer the thread. The more delicate laces need special handling. Wash delicate lace gently, by hand, then lay it flat to dry. Fortunately, there are still many pieces of fine quality lace available. For first time buyers, a small hanky with an exquisite pi
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Approximate Word count = 778
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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