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Rita de Maintenon

This course takes an in-depth look at 3 Heritage Lace techniques: Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace.

Each technique is given some historical background and a detailed look at the tools used, so students can make their own choice about which ones to purchase.

Students with basic crochet knowledge learn how to easily create Broomstick Lace and Broomstick Mesh with the use of knitting needles and how to design with and incorporate this technique into their own projects.

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This course takes an in-depth look at 3 Heritage Lace techniques: Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace.

Each technique is given some historical background and a detailed look at the tools used, so students can make their own choice about which ones to purchase.

Students with basic crochet knowledge learn how to easily create Broomstick Lace and Broomstick Mesh with the use of knitting needles and how to design with and incorporate this technique into their own projects.

Students learn how to use different size hairpins to make Hairpin strips for one strip creations and how to combine several strips for larger designs.

Students learn how to master the basic Tunisian stitch, Tunisian half-double, and Tunisian cross.

In this workshop video I will give you some historical background about each technique, often handed down through generations - and folklore - here in the USA and in Europe. I have made serious attempts to research the origins of each technique and invite you to further explore any of the given information. These origins are not an exact science. They are gathered from a plethora of historical information floating about.Each section is dedicated to a particular skill, with the emphasis on the basic rules required to master it. None of the techniques presented here are very difficult once you are comfortable with basic crochet skills and observe the golden rules of left hand tension (see below) and watch the numbers, which means counting stitches when needed. I still count after decades of playing with loops and stitches and you will eventually become very comfortable with precise work. This will enable you to practice pattern independency when creating your own designs.To keep your practice work interesting and create encouragement to become your own designer, I will include suggestions on how to combine different techniques and which ones work well together so you can freely move from one technique to another once you master the basic concepts. I will also give you the design secrets that allow you to create your own heirloom treasures.

Time for practice, project ideas and design suggestions are included in each section.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Students will learn how to make broomstick lace, hairpin lace and tunisian crochet and lace. they can include these techniques within their own designs.
  • Historical background of broomstick lace
  • A look at broomstick lace tools
  • Master basic broomstick lace
  • Combining broomstick lace with half double crochet
  • Working over different size broomsticks
  • Using different materials for a different look
  • Fun finishes for broomstick lace
  • Learn easy broomstick mesh
  • Combining broomstick mesh with star stitches
  • Combining broomstick mesh with half double crochet
  • Broomstick lace trim
  • Adding picots to the broomstick work
  • Finished projects for inspiration
  • Historical background of hairpin lace
  • A look at hairpin lace tools
  • Getting started with hairpin lace
  • Loading loops onto the hairpin
  • Counting loops on the hairpin
  • Removing the loops from the hairpin
  • Finishing the looped edges
  • One strip projects and design possibilities
  • Using cluster stitches in the hairpin strip
  • Finishing a cluster project
  • Combining several hairpin strips
  • Weaving hairpin strips together
  • Crocheting hairpin strips together
  • Hairpin lace combination projects
  • Historical background of tunian lace
  • A look at the tunisian crochet and lace tools
  • Starting tunisian crochet
  • A look at the forward and reverse pass
  • The tunisian simple stitch
  • Learn tunisian double crochet
  • Learn tunisian cross stitch
  • Learn tunisian knit stitch
  • The no-roll edge
  • Beautiful tunisian lace
  • The tunisian lace forward pass
  • The tunisian lace reverse pass
  • Tunisian lace variations and projects
  • Heritage lace combination possibilities
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Broomstick Lace
Introduction, some History and Work Samples for Inspiration
A Look at our Broomstick Tools
Getting started with Broomstick Lace
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a historical background for each technique, offering context and appreciation for the heritage of broomstick, hairpin, and Tunisian lace
Explores three distinct heritage lace techniques, which allows learners to expand their crochet skills and create unique, textured designs
Includes design secrets and suggestions for combining different techniques, which encourages learners to develop their own patterns and heirloom treasures
Requires basic crochet knowledge, so learners may need to acquire these skills before starting this course to fully benefit from the lessons
Emphasizes the importance of left-hand tension and stitch counting, which may require patience and attention to detail for some learners to master

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Reviews summary

Explore three heritage lace techniques

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in three distinct heritage lace techniques: Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace, and Tunisian Crochet. Many found the instructor's explanations clear and easy to follow, making the processes accessible even for those relatively new to these specific methods, provided they have basic crochet skills. Reviewers frequently praised the inclusion of inspiring project ideas and helpful guidance on necessary tools. While the overall instruction is highly rated, a few comments suggested the pacing might be slow for more experienced crafters and that camera angles could occasionally be clearer for intricate stitches. Overall, the sentiment is largely positive, highlighting its value for hobbyists and those seeking to expand their fiber art repertoire.
Generally good video, some close-ups difficult.
"The video quality is great..."
"Sometimes the camera angle on the stitches could be clearer..."
"Found it difficult to follow. The close-ups weren't always clear on the specific stitch work."
Good for basics, potentially slow if experienced.
"Pace was a bit slow for me. I have some experience, and the initial basics were very drawn out."
"Perfect for understanding the fundamentals."
"Some parts could be edited tighter..."
Interesting context beyond just how-to.
"Amazing detail on the historical background! This isn't just a 'how-to', it gives context."
"The historical bits were interesting."
Useful guidance on selecting necessary tools.
"The tool discussion helped me decide what to buy."
"Detailed look at the tools used..."
Inspiring project and design suggestions.
"The projects are inspiring."
"Really enjoyed the project ideas."
"Project ideas are lovely. Very happy with this purchase."
"The projects are beautiful and achievable."
Detailed look at Broomstick, Hairpin, Tunisian.
"Good overview of all three techniques."
"Covers a lot of ground. Broomstick and Hairpin sections were great. Tunisian part felt a little rushed..."
"Provides a solid foundation in three unique lace types."
Instructor is easy to follow and understand.
"The instructor is clear and patient. I learned so much..."
"Instructions are easy to follow, even for these less common techniques."
"Perfect for understanding the fundamentals. The instructor's explanation was invaluable."
"The step-by-step instructions made even the tricky parts easy to grasp."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Lace for Today with these activities:
Practice Basic Crochet Stitches
Reinforce fundamental crochet stitches to ensure a solid foundation for learning the more advanced techniques in this course.
Show steps
  • Gather yarn and crochet hook.
  • Practice chain stitch, single crochet, and double crochet.
  • Create small swatches of each stitch.
Review 'Crochet for Beginners'
Gain a solid understanding of basic crochet techniques before diving into the more specialized lace techniques.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Crochet for Beginners'.
  • Read the introductory chapters on basic stitches.
  • Practice the basic stitches described in the book.
Practice Session: Broomstick Lace
Reinforce Broomstick Lace techniques through collaborative practice and mutual feedback.
Show steps
  • Find a partner who is also taking the course.
  • Practice creating Broomstick Lace together.
  • Provide each other with feedback on technique.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Hairpin Lace Sampler
Solidify your understanding of Hairpin Lace by creating a sampler showcasing different stitch variations and strip combinations.
Show steps
  • Create several Hairpin Lace strips with different stitch patterns.
  • Combine the strips using weaving and crocheting techniques.
  • Document the techniques used for each section of the sampler.
Explore 'The Harmony Guides: Lace and Trimmings'
Broaden your understanding of lace-making techniques and their historical context.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Harmony Guides: Lace and Trimmings'.
  • Browse the sections on different lace techniques.
  • Note any historical information or design inspiration.
Design a Tunisian Lace Scarf
Apply your knowledge of Tunisian Lace to create a unique scarf design, incorporating different stitch patterns and variations.
Show steps
  • Sketch out a design for your Tunisian Lace scarf.
  • Choose your yarn and hook size.
  • Create a swatch to test your stitch patterns.
  • Begin crocheting your scarf, following your design.
Document Your Lace Projects
Improve retention by creating documentation for each of the lace projects you create in this course.
Show steps
  • Take photos of your finished lace projects.
  • Write a brief description of the techniques used.
  • Create a digital portfolio or blog post showcasing your work.

Career center

Learners who complete Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Lace for Today will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Crochet Designer
A crochet designer creates original patterns and designs for crocheted items such as clothing, accessories, and home decor. This course is directly relevant. The course provides thorough instructions in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace, along with design suggestions. Learning to combine these techniques may allow a crochet designer to create unique and innovative patterns. The course's emphasis on mastering basic skills and pattern independency helps those who wish to design their own crochet creations. This course is particularly helpful because it focuses on heritage lace stitches not always covered in standard crochet instruction.
Pattern Designer
Pattern designers create instructions for others to recreate a design, typically in sewing or other crafts. The designer must have a strong understanding of the craft itself. The course provides detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. The course will enable pattern designers to create original designs incorporating these techniques. The course's emphasis on mastering basic skills and pattern independency may be particularly useful. The course would be very beneficial to pattern designers wishing to expand their skill set.
Needlework Teacher
Needlework teachers instruct students in various needlecraft techniques such as embroidery, knitting, and crochet. This course is applicable for those who wish to add to their skillset. This course provides comprehensive instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace, and Tunisian Crochet and Lace, enabling a needlework teacher to expand their teaching repertoire. The historical background and design suggestions may provide valuable context and inspiration for instruction. A needlework teacher would specifically benefit from this course because it focuses on lesser-known heritage lace techniques.
Costume Designer
Costume designers create the clothing worn by performers in theater, film, and television productions. This course is useful for adding historical and unique elements to costumes. The course's detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace may enable a costume designer to create historically accurate or stylistically interesting garments. The historical background provided for each technique may be particularly useful. This course can give costume designers specialized knowledge of heritage lace techniques.
Historical Reenactor
Historical reenactors recreate historical events or periods, often requiring accurate clothing and accessories. This course is useful for historical reenactors. It provides detailed instruction in historical techniques such as Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. It enables historical reenactors to craft authentic-looking garments and accessories. The course's historical background for each technique is particularly valuable. A historical reenactor may benefit greatly from the specialized knowledge of heritage lace techniques this course provides.
Fiber Artist
Fiber artists create artworks using natural or synthetic fibers. Many fiber artists explore different textures and techniques. This course may be useful for fiber artists. Learning Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace, and Tunisian Crochet and Lace could add interesting and historical dimensions to fiber art projects. The course's design suggestions and emphasis on combining techniques can inspire fiber artists to blend these heritage laces with other fiber art forms. Someone interested in fiber art may find this course particularly useful due to its focus on the historical background of each technique, adding depth and context to their artistic practice.
Sewing Instructor
A sewing instructor typically teaches others how to sew on a range of topics. This course may be useful for sewing instructors, as well-rounded sewing instructors need to know the techniques presented in the course. The course offers detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. It enables sewing instructors to expand their curriculum and offer specialized classes in these heritage lace techniques. The historical background and design suggestions in the course provide additional context and ideas for instruction. This course is particularly helpful for sewing instructors who wish to offer unique and niche classes.
Fashion Designer
Fashion designers create clothing and accessories. This course may be useful as the designer who is aware of the marketplace will be more competitive. The course offers detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. The course can allow a fashion designer to incorporate unique textures and historical elements into their designs. The course emphasizes combining different techniques may inspire innovative uses of lace in modern fashion. Because the fashion industry is ever-changing, a fashion designer can benefit greatly from the specialized heritage lace techniques presented in this course.
Craft Shop Owner
A craft shop owner curates and sells handmade items and crafting supplies. This course is useful for craft shop owners who want to expand their knowledge and understanding. This course provides detailed insight into heritage skills. A craft shop owner can better understand the products they sell and offer informed advice to customers. The course will provide owners the design suggestions and finished project inspirations. Craft shops should take this course because it can provide additional niche knowledge.
Textile Artist
The textile artist creates art using various fiber and fabric techniques. This course may be useful for textile artists who want to expand their repertoire to include heritage lace techniques. Learning Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace, and Tunisian Crochet and Lace could add unique textures and visual elements to textile art pieces. The course's emphasis on design suggestions and combining different techniques may provide the inspiration to incorporate lace in innovative ways. One interested in textile arts should take this course because it offers detailed instruction in lesser-known lace techniques that can set an artist's work apart.
Craft Blogger
Craft bloggers create content, including tutorials and project ideas, for online audiences interested in various crafts. This course may be helpful for a craft blogger looking to increase their skillset. The course will provide detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace, allowing the craft blogger to share tutorials and project ideas with their audience. The course's design suggestions and finished project inspirations can provide a wealth of content ideas. A craft blogger looking to present unique skills to their readership would specifically benefit from the unusual lace techniques this course presents.
Hobbyist
Many hobbyists enjoy learning a craft. This course may be useful for that hobbyist. The course offers detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. The course can enable hobbyists to learn new skills, expand their creative outlets, and produce handcrafted items. The course's emphasis on mastering basic skills and pattern independency is helpful for personal projects and design. Because the course presents niche skills, a crafter who wants to expand a skill set might be well-served to take this course.
Textile Conservator
Textile conservators preserve and restore historical textiles, requiring knowledge of various fabric construction techniques. This course may be helpful for textile conservators. The course may provide detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. The course enables textile conservators to better understand the construction and history of these laceworks. The course's historical background for each technique is particularly valuable. A textile conservator benefits from the specialized knowledge of heritage lace techniques this course provides.
Museum curator
Museum curators manage and interpret collections of artifacts, including textiles and costumes. This course may be helpful for museum curators. The course provides detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. The course enables museum curators to better understand and contextualize lacework in their collections. The historical background for each technique is particularly valuable. The museum curator may benefit from the background knowledge and heritage lace techniques this course provides.
Home Decorator
Home decorators assist clients in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional living spaces. Home decorators look for any way to create beautiful spaces. This course may be helpful for a home decorator. This course may provide detailed instruction in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Crochet and Lace. The course may provide the home decorator with knowledge to create unique textile art and accents. The design suggestions and finished project inspirations may be particularly useful. A home decorator trying to stand out should take this course, as it offers heritage lace techniques.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Broomstick Lace, Hairpin Lace and Tunisian Lace for Today.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to crochet, covering basic stitches and techniques. It's particularly useful for students who are new to crochet or need a refresher on the fundamentals. The book includes clear instructions and helpful illustrations, making it easy to follow along and learn at your own pace. It serves as a valuable reference for understanding the foundational skills required for this course.
Provides a broad overview of various lace-making techniques, including some historical context. While it may not delve deeply into Broomstick, Hairpin, and Tunisian lace specifically, it offers valuable insights into the broader world of lace and trimmings. It can be useful for understanding the context and history of these techniques. This book is more valuable as additional reading to expand knowledge.

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