Illustrations by Robin Richesson
rrichesson@cdgia.com
Text by Marcy Froehlich
mfroehlich@cdgia.com
18th century: Bobbin lace was at its peak in this century, but goes back
to the late 16th c. when bobbins (from 12 to hundreds of them!) held threads
which are twisted, knotted, or braided. Floral designs were most popular.
19th century: Machine lace became possible due to the invention of
the steam-powered loom in 1785 and the jacquard loom in 1805. Lace now
became cheaper and thus available to more people. Very good imitations of
handmade laces were now being made on machines. While still revered for its
beauty, lace was not as cherished as it had been in the past.
