Welcome to the Australian Lace Guild

The Australian Lace Guild, founded in 1979 in NSW, was created to unite Australian lace makers. Initially, its National Administrative Committee rotated among the states every three years, with the incoming committee acting as apprentices and organising upcoming conferences and workshops. However, as fewer members could commit to six years of service, changes were made. In 2019, the Queensland committee proposed amending the Articles of Association to end the rotation system, allowing members of the National Executive Committee to come from any state. This change was approved in 2020, and in 2021, the first truly National Committee was formed.

Our members create lace for personal enjoyment and use. Lace-making is a satisfying and rewarding craft, though often challenging and time-consuming. It has not been made commercially in Australia for many years, as the time required makes it costly. For instance, creating just one square centimetre of lace can take over an hour.

About the Australian Lace Guild

The Australian Lace Guild is the national organisation that supports lace makers nationwide, working in conjunction with state bodies. Membership in the Guild automatically includes membership in the corresponding state body, which organises various activities such as meetings, workshops, newsletters, demonstrations, and displays.

The Guild’s operations are overseen by the National Administrative Committee (NAC), composed of volunteers who serve as the Guild’s directors. Key responsibilities of the NAC include:

  • Publishing a quarterly magazine for members.
  • Organising the annual conference, which features workshops and other activities.
  • Hosting the annual general meeting during the conference.
  • Managing membership fees and maintaining records.
  • Providing subsidies and grants to state bodies to support workshops and events.
  • Maintaining the Guild’s website.

 

The Lace Guild: Inspiring Creativity and Connection

At the Lace Guild, our mission goes beyond lace-making. We aim to:

  • Inspire a love for lacemaking across Australia, celebrating its beauty and heritage.
  • Connect lace makers and enthusiasts in a vibrant, inclusive community where creativity thrives.
  • Empower beginners with resources, guidance, and encouragement to start their lace-making journey with confidence.
  • Preserve and promote the rich traditions of lace, while embracing innovation and modern techniques.
  • Foster creativity and craftsmanship, sharing knowledge and skills across generations.

What you can do on our website:

Dive into the world of lace and explore all that the guild has to offer:

  • Discover a branch or group near you and connect with fellow lace makers. From local workshops to friendly gatherings, you’ll find your place in our vibrant community.
  • Find a teacher who can guide you, whether you’re just beginning or refining advanced techniques. Our directory makes it easy to start your journey.
  • Plan your visit to our yearly conference—a highlight for lace enthusiasts! Be inspired by expert demonstrations, stunning exhibitions, and the chance to share ideas with the community.
  • Join the guild to unlock a world of opportunities: access exclusive resources, connect with passionate lace makers, and contribute to preserving the art of lace for future generations.
  • Immerse yourself in the world of lace—browse stunning patterns, admire intricate creations, and find endless inspiration to spark your imagination.

By joining us, you’ll be part of a supportive community that values creativity, tradition, and innovation. Together, we celebrate the beauty of lace and the connections it weaves across Australia.

We look forward to hearing from you.

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