The technique of Honiton lace

Plot

Honiton lace is one of the most beautiful of the traditional hand-made bobbin laces, and until recently was made and taught exclusively in Devon. This is the first handbook covering every aspect of this fascinating work, and provides complete instructions for making over 50 traditional and modern designs.After a brief introduction covering the history of lacemaking in Devon, the book discusses the equipment and preparation required, and gives step-by-step instructions for elementary patterns suitable for complete beginners. Detailed explanations are then given for making 17 flat Honiton patterns, 20 patterns in the more advanced raised and rolled work, 26 different fillings and 7 leaf designs.The final section gives a list of general notes and instructions which can easily be referred to whilst working through the book, and experienced lacemakers will welcome this handy method of reference to stitches and techniques. Prickings - to be traced straight from the page - are provided for all the patterns, as well as explanatory diagrams and close-up photographs showing the finished results.This book includes many new filling stitches and methods of work devised by the author as well as the more traditional patterns and techniques, and will provide a rich source of inspiration for those lacemakers who wish to adapt the designs for their own individual projects.About the AuthorElsie Luxton has been making Honiton lace for 60 years, and is one of the foremost exponents and teachers of this Devon craft. She taught lacemaking at Exeter College for many years, and is now tutor at many colleges throughout Britain, particularly for the courses organized by the College of Craft Education at King Alfred College, Winchester and West Dean College, Chichester. She has exhibited her work throughout Britain and Europe, and is a member of the Devon Guild of Craftsmen, for whose exhibitions she designs and makes a new piece of lace each year.