The supportive, detailed guide that crafters want for frustration-free learning of all the basics, including core techniques and 40 different patterns.

Step-by-step demonstrations of new stitches, techniques and an exuberant use of materials.

What is that lace? How old is it? Has it been made by hand or machine? What would it have been used for? These are the types of questions that this practical guide sets out to answer. Lavishly illustrated, it shows you how to identify the sort of lace that you might find hiding away in drawers and cupboards, or buy at a vintage textile fair. It deals predominantly with the hand-made and machine laces of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Topics covered include: an introductory survey of the different types of lace, their history and construction; guidelines for a systematic approach to lace identification and advice on cleaning and storage; chapters on the different types of lace: bobbin lace, needlelace, craft laces such as crochet and tatting, machine lace and lace based on tapes and nets. There are exercises on distinguishing similar pieces of lace made using different techniques and there are illustrations of how lace has been used and of some of the tools used in the making. Written by experienced lacemakers, Gilian Dye and Jean Leader, it presents items from their own collections to illuminate and inspire others who wish to know more about this fascinating textile. Lace Identification is a complete guide to the beauty of this stitch craft, and will richly reward all those who study the treasures they may own.

A progressive instruction course that covers both classic and contemporary needlelace. Illustrated with easy-to-follow diagrams and photographs, this guide helps you design and work your own patterns from the selection of component samples given here.

An introduction to the traditional Turkish needlecraft of Oya.

In this book Valerie Grimwood takes the reader through each stage of the process in learning the basic techniques for needlepoint lace as well as providing inspiration to progress to the more complex patterns that can be achieved.

Working from the Encyclopedia of Needlework by T.H. de Dillmont, originally published in the late 19th century, Hazel Blomkamp has compiled all of the key needle lace embroidery techniques into one handy and portable stitch book. The book begins with a basic guide to needle lace techniques, based on several stitches Dillmon used which Hazel has broken down into easy steps. Over 40 needle lace stitches are then described, each with a clear diagram and step-by-step instructions, and a photograph of one of hazel's beautiful piece to provide inspiration. All have been detailed on one side of the page only, allowing the reader to place a magnetic cross-stitch board underneath. They can then use the magnetic rulers that come with the board to mark the row that they are working on, making the instructions easier to follow. The book is wire-bound, allowing the pages to lie flat while you work, and the book's notebook-size fits perfectly in a workbag for easy transportation while stitching on the go. With all the stitches needed for needle lace hand embroidery at their fingertips, both new and experienced embroiderers will find inspiration from this invaluable resource.