I don't fit into any of the three categories. I've been making lace since 1997 and I'm happy with torchon, some Bedfordshire (except leaves), geometric Bucks and Bruges, but I have a problem with finishing and with fine threads because I don't have sufficient feeling and control in my fingers due to rheumatoid arthritis. I've even designed a few pieces and had a couple appear in the UK Lace magazine.
Leaves are a problem. I've tried all the methods and will persist if I have to; my fingers don't always behave, but if I really want to I can use a bead instead (thanks for suggesting that Eve). I avoid darning in ends because I aim the needle, but it doesn't necessarily end up where I intend - (mounting on a background fabric means you can pull the threads through to the back of the fabric instead). Lack of sensitivity means I can break a thread while tensioning because I can't feel how much tension I'm applying so fine threads such as used in Honiton are out, but silk is wonderful for tensioning itself and not breaking. I don't worry if a thread breaks, and just run a new thread alongside the broken one. I couldn't handle bobbins without spangles because I use the spangle to pick up the bobbin - there are no lace police so, as it's the only method that works for me, I'll carry on doing it regardless of what others may say. It's either that or not make lace. If I want to make something that uses fine thread, I enlarge the pricking and do it in a thicker thread. Mistakes are "design elements". I'm not going to make heirloom lace or study fine laces in museums and collections. I'm happy with what I do as a hobby. It's the process of making that I like, not the finished item. Although I do admire what many of you do, I don't aspire to do the same because I know and accept my limitations. Jean Nathan in Poole, Dorset, UK - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
