Old Venetian lace has always been considered one of the high points of the textile arts, what with its imaginative design, technical brilliance, and universal appeal to all lands and times. It was the ancestor of most of the important laces that have since been made in Europe, and surviving specimens are the treasured possessions of the great museums of the world. Federico Vinciolo is one of the masters within this art. A leading Venetian designer, he was summoned in France to the court of Henry II, probably by Catherine de Medici, where he had the monopoly on manufacturing lace neck ruffs. In 1587 Vinciolo published a collection of his best patterns and designs, Les singuliers et nouveaux pourtraicts, which went through more than a dozen printings in France and Italy. It remains one of the basic books in the history of lace. For the modern needleworker who wishes to recapture the charm of this antique lace, Vinciolo's book offers 98 plates of fine patterns and designs in various techniques: needlepoint, darned netting, point coupé, counted thread work, and others. These include geometric forms, exuberant treatment of classical motives, Italian and Levantine designs, and mush else that the modern worker, able to pick out a pattern, can re-create. Most of this material is nowhere else available. Vinciolo's designs are also of interest to the graphic artist who wishes delicate yet forceful textile images.

Reticella work, carricmacross lace, princess lace, and other traditional techniques developed by lace-makers in Ireland, England, Spain, and other countries resulted in finished pieces of unrivaled beauty that continue to inspire needlecrafters. Now needleworkers can learn to make exquisite lace and net embroidery in styles that originated in the centuries-old lace-making centers of Europe. This volume is a classic guide to the single-thread-and-needle styles of lace-making: complete instructions and clear stitch diagrams explain how to make both needle-run and needlepoint laces. In sections of their own, tatting and Irish crochet receive the same clear treatment. Even the fascinating history of lace-making is covered in some detail, and excellent advice on the care of lace is given in conclusion. With this versatile sourcebook for reference, you, too, can create the special pieces of a lifetime: bridal veils, elegant gowns, shirts and blouses, shawls, scarves, curtains, table and bed linens. Among the lovely lace and net embroidery designs in this easy-to-follow guide, you'll find geometrics, florals, sprays, lovers' knots and other pattern classics. The lace-making art is not lost, just waiting to be rediscovered in this wonderful volume and revived in your capable hands.

Superb reproduction of most popular 16th-century lace design book. Nearly 100 original patterns for point coupe, reticella, and guipure; the second part describes square netting and embroidery. 83 full-page plates.

This collection of extraordinary lace pattern illustrations dating from 1598 are the work of Isabella Catanea Parasole, a Roman artist, lacemaker and embroiderer. The classic motifs, borders and scenes can be easily adapted by modern needleworkers for embroidery as well as the traditional lace techniques they were originally intended for- Reticella, bobbin lace and crochet.

Modern, step-by-step approach shows how to create every variety of bobbin lace, from the simplest stitches to the most challenging patterns. Suitable for needleworkers at all levels. 279 illustrations.

This very early "Modelbuch" (needlework pattern book) was first published in 1589, most likely in Germany. Originally produced for lacemakers and weavers, these patterns were quickly adapted to counted techniques by needleworkers. You'll find them perfect for your own needlepoint, counted cross stitch, beadwork and filet crochet projects.

Experienced tatters seeking particularly delicate and beautiful projects will treasure this compilation of 44 patterns, including the Ellipse, the Crowning Touch, and dainty edgings for tablecloths, napkins, handkerchiefs, collars, other items.