I spent two weeks in Belgium in September of last year, and can attest
to the fact that there is something to be seen anywhere she finds
herself!! While Belgium is a relatively small country, one could still
spend a day or more in each place, just exploring all there is to be
seen. So it would be helpful for us to know specifically where she will
be going.
For the Lacemaker, of course, Brugge is the place to be. This is where
the Kantcentrum is located, (and may be in their new location by
then...) along with numerous shops which provide supplies for
lacemakers. Brugge is also a tourist city, and people day-trip in from
the coastal areas where they are taking their holidays, so it is
bustling until later in September.
Brussels has a wealth of things to see, lace related. Specifically, the
Costume and Lace Museum is fantastic. Unfortunately, the lace
collection in the Royal Museum has been closed down permanently to make
room for other things that seem to draw more tourists. Of course, like
Brugges, Brussels has a "Lace Shop" on nearly corner. The lace in these
shops is mostly Chinese-made (but sport the label, "hand-made") or
machine made, but virtually all of these shops have collections of
"real" lace which one can see if interested (some shops don't keep it
out in view). The "real" lace is extremely expensive. I found a piece
which was made from a pattern set which I have, and which -
coincidentally - I was working on at the time, and it was priced at 950
Euros. I was satisfied with that price, but questioned whether I would
accept such a small amount for the work that was required for that piece.
Some of my most memorable days were spent exploring the countryside
dotted with small towns and farms and castles. There weren't many
sightings of lace in these areas, but I came away with a deep affection
for the country, and for my friend in Belgium who was my tourguide!
I'm envious that your friend will be going there! I would advise that
she invest is a travel guide of Belgium, and map out her agenda well in
advance. Anticipation is half the fun!!
Clay
On 2/1/2011 10:32 PM, B & J Todd wrote:
I have a friend who is going to be in Belgium at the end of August, early
September and was wondering if anyone could please suggest things that she
should check out while she is there. She is a keen lacemaker and would like
to get some lace supplies also. Are there any lace days being held at that
time ?
Any suggestions would be gratefully appreciated
Many thanks
Julie from NZ
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