European Laces: an introduction

• 48 pages
• Paperback
• 8¼in x 8¼in (21cm x 21cm)

This book provides an introduction to one of the least known but most rewarding of antiques: lace.

Lace makers across Europe produced wares which, at their finest, were more costly than jewellery for more than 300 years. The wealth, variety and beauty of these products are little appreciated today even though many examples were cherished by previous generations.

This book will be of interest to anyone concerned with the care and cataloguing of a costume or embroidery collection, embroiderers and other designers seeking inspiration, costume and general social historians, and anyone with a love of fine craftsmanship.

Heather Toomer is a freelance lecturer, author and consultant on antique lace and whitework embroideries, who is particularly concerned with their identification, their use in costume, and the history of their craft industries. Heather has worked with several museums over her 45-year career, advising and assisting with collections and displays, including a review of the handmade lace collection in the Nottingham Museum. This review helped the lace collection as a whole, including machine laces, become designated as a collection of national importance.