I was reading the lace sections in an 1894 "Barbour's Prize Needle-Work Series", and came across this authoritative paragraph, which I enjoyed and thought others might also:
"BOBBIN WORK "This work, known also as 'pillow' and 'cushion' lace, we are glad to be able to introduce in a practical way to the thousands of ladies who possess the Prize Needle-Work Series, feeling sure it will prove a source of great pleasure, and, if desired, of profit. The work is of ancient origin, and in many parts of Europe forms the chief industry of the people, being produced in all varieties, from lace as filmy as a cobweb to that bobbined of the 3-cord flax thread of coarsest numbers. In this connection it seems quite unnecessary to state that the flax thread alone is suitable for the work. Ladies who have used them know how far superior to cotton are 'Irish flax crochet and lace threads,' either in spools or balls, for knitting, crocheting, and like purposes; for bobbin-work, however, it is not a question of superiority; cotton is entirely unsuitable." p.73. The Barbour Brothers Company manufactured and distributed Irish flax thread, in case you didn't guess that. Nancy Connecticut, USA - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
