Irish crochet lace

It was originally developed in mid-nineteenth century Ireland as a method of imitating expensive Venetian point laces.

Within a few years it was being taught in almost every convent in the country and used as part of Famine Relief Schemes while providing the means needed to emigrate.

[2] Church of Ireland philanthropic leaders also taught crochet lace as famine relief projects in the north of the country and in Kildare and Cork.

[3] Charity groups sought to revive the economy by teaching crochet lace technique at no charge to anyone willing to learn.

The finished motifs are then basted (sewn with a loose stitch for temporary tacking) onto a cloth in the shape of the pattern.