Russian Lace Patterns

Book excerpt: Create Your Own World-Class Lace A thorough introduction to a centuries-old tradition, Russian Lace Patterns presents 66 templates taught by two renowned masters of their craft, Bridget Cook and Anna Korableva. Starting in the 12th century this exquisite lace adorned the robes of the tsar and religious garments, often using threads made of silver and gold. Over the centuries the metallic threads gave way to linen and colored silk. Russian lace gradually migrated from the realm of the elite to that of the common folk. Whether for display in a museum or active use in everyday activities, lace making is considered one of the most important types of Russian decorative art; as durable as it is decorative, it can be found on linens, festive attire, and work garments. Antique motifs included scenes of birds perched in flowering bushes, peacocks, and other highly elaborate images. Russian lace-making techniques are distinctly different from those used in neighboring Western Europe. Ribbon-tape is an integral part, and fewer bobbins are employed, allowing the design to be readily seen and understood as the piece evolves. This collaboration between two preeminent lace makers, Russian Anna Korableva and Briton Bridget Cook, clearly reveals the techniques step by step. Photos are provided for each finished piece, along with diagrams for the pricking patterns and placement of the Russian ribbon tape. Novice as well as experienced bobbin lace makers will find this collection indispensable. Instructions are provided in English, Dutch, French, and German, with over 150 illustrations and diagrams. Be sure to complete your library of lace patterns and methods with Bridget Cook's other lace making titles published by Echo Point Publishing: Russian Lace Making (ISBN 1648370284 hardcover, 1648370292 paperback) and The Torchon Lace Workbook (ISBN 1648370241 hardcover, 164837025X paperback). This book is also available from Echo Point Books in paperback (ISBN 1648370276).