Hairpin Lace...My Next Crochet Adventure!

Hairpin lace is a technique using a crochet hook and a special loom, which consists of two parallel metal rods held at the top and the bottom by removable bars. Originally, a metal U-shaped hairpin was used, from which the name originates.  I read that women used to pull a pin out of their elaborate hairstyles to work with!

I found this excerpt about hairpin lace in one of my vintage "Smart Crochet" magazines: "Katherine of Aragon (1485-1536) is given credit for inventing hairpin lace.  Through the years it has been known by various names- "Kat Stitch", "French or Wire Ground" and "Six Pointed Star Ground".

My interest in hairpin lace was recently sparked when I saw the Lotus Smock pattern by the amazing Stitch Diva Studios.  It is described as a "super fast and easy project".  Wow, it is so gorgeous and takes hairpin lace to a new level of beautiful!

I think hairpin lace has a lot of possibilities and I am inspired to learn the technique and put my own spin on it.  I ordered one of the wonderful handmade wooden looms from Stitch Diva Studios.  I love that they are made by an Oregon couple, Ed and Wanda Jenkins of Jenkins Woodworking.  When you need a tool for the craft, why not treat yourself to something special and support some talented craftspeople in the process!  I can't wait for my next box of goodies from America, so I can get my hands on this loom and dive into the world of hairpin lace crochet!

Stitch Diva Studios also has some great hairpin lace tutorials as well as tips and tricks, on their website if you are interested in learning the technique.  

After I get the chance to use the loom, I will do a review and hopefully have a project to show you, so stay tuned!