Rita DeMaintenon's Gallery

Hairpin and Broomstick Lace: learn more about Hairpin and Broomstick Lace by clicking this link.
Photo By: Stewart Stokes

About this Gallery: Hairpin Lace and Broomstick Lace The traditional form of crochet known as Hairpin Lace was historically known as Maltese Crochet. The the technique of Hairpin Crochet was developed is uncertain; however, in a publication dated 1890 it is referred to as "Old Fashioned Hairpin Lace." so it must have been regarded as having a history, even back then. The origins of Broomstick Crochet, also called Peacock Stitch or Witchcraft Lace, are obscure. There are no references or examples of it in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London or in the American Museum in Bath. Americans claim broomstick crochet as their own because there is evidence that the early settlers used it as a quick way to make blankets. In America, Canada and Australia it is still practiced as a traditional craft and is demonstrated in rural life museums. In America it is sometimes called Jiffy Lace. In Sweden it is called Lattice Loop. It probably originated in Europe, born out of necessity and used up odds and ends of yarn. Created n this way, it may not have been treasured as heirlooms and therefore the lack of evidence means that the history is mostly conjecture instead of fact. Learn more about heritage techniques by following this link From: Muriel Kent, "Exciting Crochet" David and Charles Publications, Devon 1987