Irish lace

Both needlepoint and bobbin laces were made in Ireland before the middle of the eighteenth century, but never, apparently, on a commercial scale.

The skill of lacemaking soon spread beyond Dublin to the poorest parts of the country; it proved a popular means for young women to help support their families.

Lace-making required little equipment beyond bobbins and fine cotton or linen thread, and a great deal of patience, so was suitable for remote parts of the country that had little industry and few employment options.

Lace was a luxury commodity, used to decorate elaborate wedding dresses, christening robes, and church vestments; it played a vital part in saving many families from starvation and destitution.

Because most Irish women could do needlework, the nuns realized their lace-making skills presented an opportunity to help save people from the famine.

Thread is laid over the top in the outline of the design and secured with a fine detached buttonhole stitch in a process called "couching".

Carrickmacross lace was introduced into Ireland in about 1820 by Mrs Grey Porter of Donaghmoyne, who taught it to local women so that they could earn some extra money.

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