Needle Lace - An Introduction - Retford Library - Adult Learning

This course will provide you with an introduction to the skills used in needle lace. Using primarily a needle and thread, you will learn the skills required to create a small motif. This simple project will also introduce the basic technique of ‘couching’ the outline of your shape (also known as cordonet) and some of the basic stitches. You will need no prior knowledge to do this course, but if you have confidence with a needle and thread, you might develop your needle lace skills quicker than if you are new to using a needle, but you will still be able to complete the course.

You will be making stitches in air (Punto in aria) and looking at the history of this craft and growth from Italy. It is considered the first true lace because it was the first meant to be stitched alone, and not first onto a woven fabric. Over the three weeks you will be introduced to the skills used in needle lace and create a motif. Needle lace is made primarily with a needle and thread and is a popular choice for stumpwork designs, because of its intricate texture and delicate appearance (depends on threads).

What you will need to bring to the course:

Essential:

- a pointed sewing needle

- a blunt tapestry needle

- sewing thread

The following are required, but if you have any issues sourcing, please contact the tutor:

- 20 crochet cotton thread

- self-adhesive book cover film (approx. 20cm (8 inch) square)

- 2 layers of fabric about 2-3 cm larger than the motif (approx. 20cm (8 inch) square)