Learn Lace

Equipment

Getting started with lace-making doesn’t have to break the bank—it can be as affordable or as elaborate as you choose. Bobbins can cost as little as $1 each, and you can even make your own pillow. Borrow books and patterns from friends, your local library, or your state’s lace guild if you’re a member.

To begin, you’ll need a firm pillow (round or square – see links below about how to make your own), some pins, thread, and at least 10 pairs of bobbins. As you progress, you might add tools like lazy susans, fine crochet hooks, pin pushers, divider pins, or fan sticks—but to start, the basics are enough. Check out the beginner-friendly patterns and dive in!

Resources for making or purchasing equipment:
Pillows:

Let’s talk lace pillows


https://brandis.com.au/craft/Lace/block.html

Supplies:
https://www.lacemakingsupplies.com.au/
https://www.lizgreenarts.com.au/shop/lace-bobbins-spangles/167

Patterns (suitable for both children and adult beginners):

Patterns


https://www.theedkins.co.uk/jo/lace/patbegint.htm

The Basic Stitches

Lace-making revolves around mastering just two basic movements: the cross and the twist. These simple actions form the foundation for countless stitches and patterns, from roseground and spiders to edgings and fans. Whether you’re working on Honiton, Bedfordshire, Torchon, or Bucks lace, it all comes down to these two movements. When starting a stitch, number the bobbins from left to right, 1 2 3 4. Renumber the bobbins as you move through each step.

Key Points:

  • Cross: Move bobbin 2 over bobbin 3.
  • Twist: Simultaneously move bobbin 2 over 1 and bobbin 4 over 3.

Each stitch uses only two pairs of bobbins (4 bobbins in total) at a time, no matter how many pairs are on your pillow.

Stitches:

  1. Whole Stitch (CTC):
    • Cross: Move bobbin 2 over 3. Renumber.
    • Twist: Simultaneously move bobbin 2 over 1 and bobbin 4 over 3. Renumber.
    • Cross again: Move bobbin 2 over 3.
    • Known as a linen stitch in Europe.
  2. Half Stitch (CT):
    • Cross: Move bobbin 2 over 3. Renumber
    • Twist: Simultaneously move bobbin 2 over 1 and bobbin 4 over 3.
  3. Whole Stitch and Twist (CTCT):
    • Combine the Whole Stitch steps with an extra Twist at the end.
    • Also called a Whole Stitch in Europe.

Practice these movements without renumbering your bobbins and remember to watch the threads, not the bobbins—it will become second nature with time!

Where Can I Learn?

The best place to start is in your local State group.