Lace is a very delicate fabric, which has long been implemented in haute couture and underwear design. Its beauty lies in the delicate nature of the fabric, its versatility and in the various presentations found of it.
This time we bring you an article, where you can learn everything about lace and how you can include it in your sewing projects.
WHAT IS LACE?
Lace is a type of ornamental fabric that is characterized by having intricate and delicate patterns. They can be made of different materials, such as cotton, silk, linen fabric, nylon, polyester, among others.
They can be made by hand or with specialized sewing machines. It is commonly used in fashion to decorate clothing. As wedding dresses, blouses, skirts, as well as decoration, such as curtains, tablecloths and cushions.
LACE MAKING TECHNIQUES
Needlework: Also known as Russian lace, it is a fabric made by hand with a needle and thread. Very delicate and elegant which is commonly used in wedding dresses and linens.
Bobbin lace: It is made by hand with threads and bobbins. It is very popular in Europe and is commonly used in decoration.
Knitting: it is made by knitting with needles and can be done with different types of threads and needles. It is a very versatile lace and is commonly used in fashion.
Ribbon: This lace is made with fabric ribbons and is commonly used in fashion to adorn clothing, bags, shoes and other accessories.
TYPES OF LACE
CHANTILLY
It is a type of lace well known for its delicacy and elegance. Originating from the French city of Chantilly in the 17th century. Since then, it has been a staple in fashion and decoration.
Chantilly is characterized by intricate and delicate patterns that often include flowers and leaves. It is made from silk threads and is commonly used in wedding dresses, evening dresses, women’s underwear and linen garments.
VALENCIENNE
Valenciennes, originating from the French city of Valence, is a type of handmade needle lace. It is characterized by not having a cord bordering the drawing, since both the background and the flower are made at the same time with the same thread.
This slow and meticulous manufacturing process gives great value to the Valenciennes. Which is commonly used on delicate garments to add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Its beauty and quality make it highly appreciated in fashion and decoration.
CLOTHING
It is characterized by having an intricate and delicate pattern that often includes flowers and leaves. It is made by hand or machine with silk, cotton or linen threads and is highly valued for its beauty and quality.
VENETIAN
Also known as Burano lace, it is handmade originating from the Italian city of Venice. It is characterized by having an intricate design with needlepoint patterns and embroidery. It is made with silk, linen or cotton threads and is highly valued for its beauty and quality.
GUIPUR
Guipure, also known as Crochet lace. It is made by hand or machine that is characterized by having an intricate and delicate pattern.
It originated in the 17th century in Europe and has been highly appreciated in fashion ever since.
ALENCON
Alencón is a type of handmade needle lace that is characterized by having an intricate and elaborate design.
It is handmade using needlepoint and silk thread embroidery techniques. The Alencón manufacturing process is very laborious and requires skill and patience to produce an accurate and detailed design. It is commonly used in couture garments, wedding dresses, and home decor.
BRUSSELS
Handmade using the needle technique, using linen thread. This lace is characterized by its fineness and the naturalness of its figures and plant motifs in the design.
NEEDLE
It was made using the crochet technique. It is characterized by being thicker and more rustic than other types of lace, and usually has a simpler and more geometric design.
HOW TO USE LACE IN SEWING PROJECTS
Here are some ideas to apply it in sewing projects:
Decorate clothing: they can be used to decorate clothing, such as dresses, blouses, skirts and pants. You can apply them to the sleeves, collars, hems and openings of garments to add a touch of elegance.
Home decoration: They can be used to decorate the home, such as curtains, tablecloths, cushions and more.
Bedding: to decorate bedding such as sheets, pillowcases and duvets.
Fashion accessories: They are used to decorate fashion accessories, such as bags, hats and shoes.
HOW TO SEW LACE
Sewing lace can be a complicated process, but with practice and patience, anyone can learn how to do it. Here are some tips:
Use a fine needle and thin thread for hand sewing.
On the sewing machine, use a fine needle and thin thread.
Use pins to hold the lace in place before sewing.
Try on the garment before sewing to make sure the lace fits correctly.
Use a thread the same color as the garment so the lace blends seamlessly.
Use a blind needle stitch to make the seam as invisible as possible.
On sewing machines use a zigzag stitch to make the seam as flexible as possible.
Now that you know all the types of lace and its technique, what are you waiting for to apply it in your projects?