There is a lull in Arachne postings, therefore, the following: Recently, I cleaned and mended a lace collar for a new member of our little group of Maine lacemakers. Usually I restrict myself to caring for my own collection, which always needs attention, but this was the photographer who volunteered so much time and expense to photographing the French chateau laces that are on the International Organization of Lace's Ning site, where they all can be seen in color and detail (not possible in our lace bulletins). It came to mind today that she had bought the lace collar via ebay, sight unseen. Before, I've written that lace purchases should include holding the item in your hands and giving it a close examination on both sides. This is because photos on ebay and similar sites do not reveal all. In the current Maine Antique Digest, a very large monthly publication that is very widely distributed, I read something that those buying old or used laces and lace supplies should consider: "It seems strange that collectors who spend so many lonely hours on the Internet checking dealers' postings, searching auction catalogs, e-mailing, texting, and Tweeting do not go to antiques shows to carefully examine objects of desire. At a show, they could engage in conversation and good fellowship and get a personal tutorial on the fine points of connoisseurship from passionate dealers who have plunked down hard cash to buy something of merit. Are the patterns of modern living so packed with events that attendance at antiques shows cannot fit into normal schedules?" You could substitute "lace dealers selling at lace events, local antiques and re-sale shops, auctions, and private sales" for "antiques shows" and arrive at the same conclusion. This is the get-out-and-explore season in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a good time to seek lace-related items during your travels. I learn much from internet postings, but never buy from therm. The hunt for special items is so much more fun. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center
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