The Technique of Torchon Lace - Tapa dura

As a sequel to her "Technique of Bobbin Lace", Pamela Nottingham has compiled a work on the technique of making and designing Torchon lace. This simple geometric lace was introduced into England in the second half of the 19th century and its popularity among lacemakers has continued to this day. This book deals with the equipment and choice of thread, how to make prickings, the basic stitches and the principles of pattern design. It then gives a series of graduated patterns showing how to create narrow edgings, circular motifs, square and rectangular mats, braids, triangles, circular edgings, collars and insertions. A full explanation of terms is given and all the step-by-step instructions are illustrated with detailed diagrams. Twenty prickings are reproduced to scale for the reader to trace off the page and thirteen grids are provided as the basis for original designs. The book also includes close-up photographs of finished examples.