Hi Devon, This question about Broomstick lace immediately sent me to Dillmont's Encyclopedia of Needlework. The stitch formation is exactly the same as what Dillmont calls Tunisian Crochet. The large size of the loops and crocheting across the tops of the loops is the modern twist. So while Broomstick lace may not have been practiced exactly, the supporting technique is there at least 150 years ago. As for crochet existing in 1600, I doubt that very much. Crochet and Tatting are both relative youngsters.
I doubt there was much crocheting until the Irish arrived mid 1800s. ============================================================================ = I have received an inquiry from a woman who is looking for information on Broomstick Crochet, otherwise known as Jiffy lace. She has done some research an finds contradictory evidence in articles about where it started. One theory is that it originated in America where early settlers used it as a quick way of making blankets and shawls. She is hopeful that in some museum there would be an example of it. Also the article claims that "America claims it as their own, although it has origins in Europe. She is attempting to try to find out where in Europe it originated, if it did not originate in America, to identify its actual place of origin and to find "the evidence" in an old example of it somewhere. Also she says one source claims that it started circa 1800 and another circa 1600. The article states that in Sweden, it is called Lattice Loop. This website shows you how to do Broomstick crochet _http://www.crochetcabana.com/specialty/broomstick_lace_jiffy_lace_.htm_ (http://www.crochetcabana.com/specialty/broomstick_lace_jiffy_lace_.htm) She writes: <<I would like to be able to confirm the following. Where, in Europe the technique started. If there is a sample in any museum, maybe a shawl, blanket or some such thing, perhaps to do with the early pioneers. I have been attempting to track it down, as one article implied that there is evidence that it was used by the early pioneers. The date's I have, also vary, some say it is c 1600 and others say it is much more recent.>> I have checked in our museum, but not found much to offer. Does anyone know any information that would help her? Incidentally, in Liz Paludan's book on crochet, it is called Peacock stitch. Devon - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]
