Fine Irish Crochet Lace

With over 50 photographs of completed lace work, this practical guide provides instructions for creating a number of lovely Irish crochet trimmings, including edgings, collars, yokes, inserts, and a bib.

Preface to second edition -- Réamhrá - foreword --The story of clones lace -- How to make clones lace -- Twenty-one motifs -- Some edgings -- Working with linen -- Irish crochet -- Twelve projects -- Footnotes.

This excellent turn-of-the-century introduction to Irish crochet is a well-planned guide to all levels of skill and experience. The work includes step-by-step, illustrated directions for dozens of classic motifs, borders, and medallions — plus ways to combine them into bonnets, purses, gowns, and other clothing and accessories. 117 black-and-white illustrations.

Crocheters at every level of expertise will appreciate these versatile patterns and their complete instructions for 30 motifs, 12 intricate grounds, and a variety of traditional footings and borders. 100 photos.

Vol.2: Pattern manual 1580-1640. "This book trains you to be a pattern maker. You will learn the most common drafts for men and women from the years 1580-1640"--Publisher's description.

"Of all the forms of crochet lace that are known, 'Irish Crochet' is most sought after and is probably the best known. While the Irish tradition for producing this work dates back to the sixteenth century, when it was known as 'nuns work' from the fact that the technique and style was developed in Irish convent communities in imitation of continental European lacemaking styles, the manufacture of crochet lace did not become a cottage industry in Ireland until the middle of the nineteenth century, after the devastation caused by the Great Famine of the 1840s, when the development of home crafts was encouraged to create some small income for otherwise destitute families." "A lifelong involvement with the Irish lacemakers inspired Mrs d'Arcy to record her knowledge and to describe the traditional motifs and patterns that were gradually being lost as the old lace makers died out. Irish Crochet Lace is both a pictorial record of one of Ireland's finest crafts and a practical manual which sets out in order the steps in construction of a wide range of traditional motifs that can be built up into unique and beautiful designs."--BOOK JACKET.

Every crocheter stares admiringly at vintage lace, wishing to replicate its delicacy and elegance. The originals were stitched with finer thread than we use today, making that gorgeous heirloom-quality crochet lace an elusive dream. This unique guide showcases a collection of antique tablecloths and bedspreads--each a magnificent example of the crocheter’s art--and revises the old techniques to suit today’s threads. Complete patterns are included for each project, along with instructions and full-page photos that make intricate designs easy to follow. Special attention is paid to working with traditional steel hooks and choosing the perfect crochet threads, and plenty of advice is offered for working in filet. These projects take time, but the results will become tomorrow’s heirlooms.