[lace] Lace Demonstrating
I begin my 8th year demonstrating early bobbin lace at the Virginia Renaissance Fair on Saturday. If there are Lacemakers in the area or anyone who enjoys a family friendly day out please come to the Fair. The fair runs Saturdays and Sundays from May 7th through June 5th in Spottsylvania County Virginia. and information and directions can be found at www.varf.org. Cindy In a cool Dumfries, VA - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating lace
Much as I feel every day can be (and often is) knit in public day (yes, I had my knitting out at the cafe on Saturday for the 'official' day), my lace pillow with the simple little nine pin edging comes with me all sorts of places (mostly SCA events, but not entirely!). Every day can be lace in public day! Heather -- who is still chuffed to bits that my darling SiL used some of my knitted lace as part of her wedding dress this past weekend. On Tue, Jun 16, 2015 at 8:48 AM, Lyn Bailey lynrbai...@supernet.com wrote: The real point is, demonstrating lace wherever you are is important, and doesn’t take much. Just bring along some lace where you don’t need total quiet in order to concentrate, and make lace in a public place. It does make a difference. Lyn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA where we’ve finally turned on the air conditioning. Hot and humid. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
[lace] Demonstrating lace
Whether there is a special day for it or not, we should all, especially in the US, where they still almost universally think bobbin lace is tatting, do lace in public places as much as possible. Kathryn Roberts and I demonstrated lace at the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen Makefest. The Guild took over a block of Queen Street, and the demos were there. Including 3D printing, and T shirt screening, and glass blowing, and wood carving. Lacemaking had been mentioned in the newspaper article, and some people came looking for the lace. I will be teaching a class in October, and had a haveago pillow with me. Each person did a row of linen stitch, 7 pairs total, in #10 colored crochet cotton. For my purposes, getting people to try it on a pillow, (2 over 3, 2 over 1 and 4 over 3, 2 over 3) showed them that it wasnât nearly as difficult as they thought it was. I remembered that what kick started me was doing a haveago pillow at a craft show in Noonan, Georgia, USA. It certainly makes a difference in oneâs mindset as to whether this is possible. One woman remembered my demonstrating lace 3 years ago outside of Central Market here in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA, our local farmerâs market that goes back to 1730. The real point is, demonstrating lace wherever you are is important, and doesnât take much. Just bring along some lace where you donât need total quiet in order to concentrate, and make lace in a public place. It does make a difference. Lyn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA where weâve finally turned on the air conditioning. Hot and humid. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
Dear Fellow Spiders, To?the usual 'never have the patience' comment. My response is that it gives me patience rather than taking it, and that I am much more relaxed after I've been able to work on my lace..(-: ? Next, no, it isn't hard. (To me, some things are tedious, but if I can grasp them conceptually I don't think they should be described as 'hard'. I think to say 'yes, it is hard' only puts people off.) But then I proceed to tell why it isn't hard. Rather than saying it is all 'cross twist', I say it is mostly 'right over left or left over right', making the motion as I say it. It is a kind of weaving, but two rows at a time.Most children (and adults) have woven potholders and understand the concept of basic weaving. If they ask about how I know what to do, I show them that there is a pattern that tells me. If they ask how I can understand the pattern, I ask if they can read music (which thankfully often elicits a yes...but if not, there are other examples). It's just notation that you learn to interpret. And finally, when I still get the look of skepticism, I remind them that computers only use zeros and ones, and it is in the combining of many simple things that something complex results. So zero one, cross twistyes, it moves on from there, but it does cover the essentials and their eyes show them that there is a bit more to it. Vicki in Maryland - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
I absolutely agree with Vicki on this one. The need to make lace backwards when. You have a mistake and just can't ignore it taught me patience. I leant in my early 20s and at that age I thought there was no time for anything. If I made a mistake in may other craft I would work round it but in lacemaking, if you made a mistake the bobbins simple weren't where you needed them and you had to go backwards. I've learnt that some mistakes can be ignored and the finish piece looks fine other times no. A bit like life really. Kind Regards Liz Baker On 14 Dec 2013, at 01:07, Vicki Bradford twohappyb...@aol.com wrote: To?the usual 'never have the patience' comment. My response is that it gives me patience rather than taking it, and that I am much more relaxed after I've been able to work on my lace..(-: ? - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
- Subject: Re: [lace] Demonstrating Does anyone remember the spectacular fashion show the Puerto Rico lacemakers held at the castle by the sea during their IOLI convention many years ago? bBeautiful laces newly made for baptismal dresses, communition dresses, weddings, quinceaneras and just for nice. Handmade lace still was obviously a part of their lives. EMK Geraldine Stott and myself were invited to teach lacemaking on a caribbean cruise back in the 1980's. We flew to Puerto Rico where we taught for two days before boarding the ship for the cruise and it was there in Puerto Rico that the local lacemakers put on a fashion show for us. It was excellent and the work was exquisite - all gorgeous pure linen dresses etc embellished with the most beautiful hand worked lace and stitching. I remember one little girl in particular who really fancied herself as a fashion model, and the organisers just couldn't get her of the stage - she was like a true professional on the catwalk! Catherine Barley UK Catherine Barley Needlelace www.catherinebarley.com - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
RE: [lace] Demonstrating
I am self taught and I started with Bucks-point since I learned a long time ago that if I am not thrilled with the beauty of what I am making I will never complete it. Thusly I do better by jumping into the deep end of the pool (which by the way is how I learned how to swim as well) I have to know that when I am done people are going to go o.Awww. and tell me they would never have the patience for that. I want what I do to be beautiful and something people as well as me will want to mount and put up for everyone to see. I cross-stitch, knit, crochet, work chainmail, and do lace that way...Remarkably the method works great for me because I am never disappointed even if my first attempts have errors. I just keep trying and perfecting until it is how I wish it to look. I am pleased with my efforts, I am eager to start more...I generally end up gifting almost all of my stuff. I have learned I have to be occasionally firm and insist on something being just mine, or I never have anything and everyone else has my work on their walls LOL. My mother, bless her soul, did make sure that when she passed all the works she received from me came back to me. So I am in agreement that there really is no real line that cannot be crossed if you're willing to accept the challenge and take the time to make sure you're learning the basics as you go. The most important thing to remember is you have to do something you seriously want to do, and that you're enjoying yourself. I am a strong believer in not letting other's set limits for you. I do have to admit however that I am very independent and not all people have my desire to jump in head first into deep water (yes I dived before I swam) but my brain is wired that way. Everyone has their own idea of where they wish to start and should be allowed to start there...either at the very beginning with braids or at the deep end. I do have to admit, that I made 2 braids, it took one afternoon and I KNEW right then that I would never make lace if I continued in that manner. Cearbhael - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
One of the exercises that I did with my delegates at the weekend was to give them insight I to how they prefer to learn. I use VARK and Honey Mumford as the two learning style tests. Google them, you will quickly see yourself in the descriptions. What the delegates found interesting is that they all thought that they had a preferred learning style however, most had a strong preference but were surprised to find that there was a second preference that was also string. Then when they looked into their second preference in more detail they all admitted that they do find it easier to access learning through the second way if the first was unavailable. There has been a lot written on how if you force someone to learn through a low preference learning style it will be hard but they will never forget. I can store massive amounts of data in my head but it is in context rather than read off a page. I had to learn a poem for my o levels... It took two weeks to learn but I have never forgotten it. I have problems remembering song lyrics or pieces of music however, I can sight read music two play on the guitar or piano or to sing. From the comment below I would expect the VARK to show that preferred sensory learning style (how you would prefer to experience learning) as kinaesetic - to learn through all the senses, feel, see, hear and taste and the the HM psychological learning style (how you would prefer to think about and rationalise learning) as activist - learn through doing but with high theorist tendencies (give me a book and I can perform brain surgery). I find how people learn and retain information important and exciting because my challenge as a tutor and trainer is to ensure all my training is accessible regardless of how the delegate wants to access the training and learn. The great teacher that everyone loved at school would have modelled this behaviour; they would have been everything to everyone so that everyone thought that the teacher was talking just to them and made a connection. That was just an outstanding teacher who was able to get everyone to access learning. Kind Regards Liz Baker On 9 Dec 2013, at 23:22, Angel Skubic cearbh...@midco.net wrote: The most important thing to remember is you have to do something you seriously want to do, and that you're enjoying yourself. I am a strong believer in not letting other's set limits for you. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
RE: [lace] Demonstrating
Liz I am amazed!!! I took the test. You are right on the button!!! I am definitely kinaesetic. Thanks for the information, It was quite enlightening, though I doubt I am going to perform any brain surgery despite the possibility of a book out there I could learn from LOL... Cearbhael From the comment below I would expect the VARK to show that preferred sensory learning style (how you would prefer to experience learning) as kinaesetic - to learn through all the senses, feel, see, hear and taste and the the HM psychological learning style (how you would prefer to think about and rationalise learning) as activist - learn through doing but with high theorist tendencies (give me a book and I can perform brain surgery). Kind Regards Liz Baker - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
[lace] Demonstrating
Date: Thu, 5 Dec 2013 11:40:49 -0500 (EST) From: dmt11h...@aol.com Subject: Re: [lace] Demonstrating ..At one point someone came to a lace class that we were having and said that she had been told that there were really only two stitches, cross and twist and that after you learned how to do them you could do anything. We were a little stunned and the teacher didn't know how to proceed with this idea. Devon Hi Arachnids The answer is simple. Knitting has only two basic stitches â plain and purl â and you can make all kinds of patterns and garments. Lacemaking is the same, two basic stitches and they used in many different ways. Merry Christmas Alex - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
- Original Message - Demonstrating Subject: Re: [lace] Demonstrating Hi Arachnids The answer is simple. Knitting has only two basic stitches â? plain and purl â? and you can make all kinds of patterns and garments. Lacemaking is the same, two basic stitches and they used in many different ways. Alex I use the same analogy myself for both bobbin and needlelace. It's just like knitting or crochet in that there is just one basic stitch, a buttonhole/blanket stitch for needlelace and either a plain ir purl stitch for kntting - you knit into either the back or the front of it to give you a plain or purl row. If you knit 2 sts together, you need to make a stitch in the following row by either knitting into both the front and back of the same stitch to increase, or you put the wool round the needle to increase, each method gives a different appearance to the finished work. It's the same with needlelace and crochet, in that you miss a loop, which results in a gap between the loops, so one needs to maintain the original number of stitches by working additional stitches into these long loops in the following row - Simple! Catherine Barley Henley-on-Thames UK Who must get back to scanning her book for POD. I'm making progress and it's going to happen, thanks to Alex and her printing company! Catherine Barley Needlelace www.catherinebarley.com - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/ - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
I have been thinking about this. That is that the student thought this was something vey easy, like gluegun crafts. I think the problem was with the person, and not necessarily with the words of the demonstrator. Unless all that was being shown was something akin to 'the bandage' or snakes. I tell people the same thing, 4 bobbins, cross, twist. But the evidence of their eyes is the lace I'm working on, usually either the altar cloth, which actually is Torchon, or the classic beginners edging of Bucks point, done in Aurifil 50, for the frill on a 'lace' cap. Both are obviously lace, and there clearly is more to it that just cross twist. But that is a good place to start. Gilian Dye's beginners' bobbin lace manual starts with a plait, which is 2 pair and crosstwistcrosstwist. A great place to start, but you only do a few inches and then on to the equivalent of the snakes. On the whole I think it is better to give the impression that lacemaking begins easily, and then moves on, rather than daunting people with the intricacies and giving the impression that's how one starts. While it is possible, I know of no one who started in Binche. Lyn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA, where they say the snow will start this afternoon. Hopefully after church. Rain overnight? Wonder what will happen. Devon wrote: At one point someone came to a lace class that we were having and said that she had been told that there were really only two stitches, cross and twist and that after you learned how to do them you could do anything. We were a little stunned and the teacher didn't know how to proceed with this idea. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
[lace] Demonstrating
For about the last century, most people have been making lace as a hobby rather than to earn a living, and have had some choice as to what lace to start with - some, because frequently that choice is dictated by the teacher to start with. Some teachers throw their hands up in horror if you even suggest starting with something other than braid lace or Torchon - probably because they are not used to teaching the beginner skills to progress to anything else. Go back beyond that, though, and even at four or five years of age you would have been learning the lace of the town/region in which you lived. In some places, like Honiton, and I suspect on the continent, that is still the case, but children would have started off learning the more complex laces - they would probably never have learned anything else! Some teachers like to make people think lace is difficult to learn in order to keep them coming to class, and not let them even think they could learn from books, DVDs or U-tube on their own. The first stage of learning to make lace is learning the self-confidence that tells you you can do it; after that, getting your hands to work the cross and twist movements, then to stop thinking about what you are doing and let your hands get on with the task - those are the difficult bits. Once that has clicked, then other than certain advanced techniques, the lace itself isn't all that complicated! In message 893662BF2DDA426AB8F380939BCD0A61@Cecily, Lyn Bailey lynrbai...@desupernet.net writes While it is possible, I know of no one who started in Binche. -- Jane Partridge - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
Lace is 'just' cross twist, in exactly the same way as knitting is 'just' knit and purl.  Why make things more complicated than you need to? When you teach someone to knit you don't go sideways and immediately start tellling them that although knitting is 'just' knit and purl, of course it's not really because sometimes you use another needle and move the order of the stitches to do cables, or four needles and knit round and round,  or sometimes you do yo and k2tog to make holes for lace, and sometimes you knit short rows to do shaping and sometimes you only use a few of all the stitches at a time for entrelac, and sometimes you use more than one colour for fairisle.  Need I go on? Bobbin lace is just the same.  All you need for the solid areas are cloth stitch or half stitch worked from side to side, all you need for ground are half stitch or cloth stitch worked with pins at each set of stitches, all you need for plaits are half stitches.  The only bit that isn't are leaves and tallies, and many people avoid them like the plague anyway.  As they learn they will see how the solid and the ground get joined, in the same way as knitters will learn rib and increasing and decreasing, or holes or cables, as they need to. No one is going to sit at a have-a-go pillow, learn cloth and half stitch and immediately think they can tackle a Bucks fan.  But on the other hand if you start describing the learning curve between the have-a-go and the fan, all but the most determined will be put off before they even start. My vote is for Bobbin lace is just cloth stitch and half stitch.  You can do them now.  In a class, or from a book, you'll learn how to use them. Jacquie in Lincolnshire Sent from Samsung tablet - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
Jane said Go back beyond that, though, and even at four or five years of age you would have been learning the lace of the town/region in which you lived No need to go back in time, just visit Camariñas in Spain, (and very probably other towns on the continent as well,) where lace is valued as an important part of their heritage,  and you can see children of 5, 6 and 7 working on complex guipure laces with very little help. Working fast at that, and chatting away to each other in exactly the same way they see their older sisters, mothers, grandmothers and aunts doing. Jacquie in Lincolnshire Sent from Samsung tablet Original message From Jane Partridge jpartri...@pebble.demon.co.uk Date: 08/12/2013 14:42 (GMT+00:00) To lace@arachne.com Subject [lace] Demonstrating For about the last century, most people have been making lace as a hobby rather than to earn a living, and have had some choice as to what lace to start with - some, because frequently that choice is dictated by the teacher to start with. Some teachers throw their hands up in horror if you even suggest starting with something other than braid lace or Torchon - probably because they are not used to teaching the beginner skills to progress to anything else. Go back beyond that, though, and even at four or five years of age you would have been learning the lace of the town/region in which you lived. In some places, like Honiton, and I suspect on the continent, that is still the case, but children would have started off learning the more complex laces - they would probably never have learned anything else! Some teachers like to make people think lace is difficult to learn in order to keep them coming to class, and not let them even think they could learn from books, DVDs or U-tube on their own. The first stage of learning to make lace is learning the self-confidence that tells you you can do it; after that, getting your hands to work the cross and twist movements, then to stop thinking about what you are doing and let your hands get on with the task - those are the difficult bits. Once that has clicked, then other than certain advanced techniques, the lace itself isn't all that complicated! In message 893662BF2DDA426AB8F380939BCD0A61@Cecily, Lyn Bailey lynrbai...@desupernet.net writes  While it is possible, I know of no one who started in Binche. -- Jane Partridge - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/ - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
Does anyone remember the spectacular fashion show the Puerto Rico lacemakers held at the castle by the sea during their IOLI convention many years ago? bBeautiful laces newly made for baptismal dresses, communition dresses, weddings, quinceaneras and just for nice. Handmade lace still was obviously a part of their lives. EMK On Dec 8, 2013, at 10:16 AM, laceandbits laceandb...@aol.com wrote: Jane said Go back beyond that, though, and even at four or five years of age you would have been learning the lace of the town/region in which you lived No need to go back in time, just visit Camariñas in Spain, (and very probably other towns on the continent as well,) where lace is valued as an important part of their heritage, and you can see children of 5, 6 and 7 working on complex guipure laces with very little help. Working fast at that, and chatting away to each other in exactly the same way they see their older sisters, mothers, grandmothers and aunts doing. Jacquie in Lincolnshire Sent from Samsung tablet Original message From Jane Partridge jpartri...@pebble.demon.co.uk Date: 08/12/2013 14:42 (GMT+00:00) To lace@arachne.com Subject [lace] Demonstrating For about the last century, most people have been making lace as a hobby rather than to earn a living, and have had some choice as to what lace to start with - some, because frequently that choice is dictated by the teacher to start with. Some teachers throw their hands up in horror if you even suggest starting with something other than braid lace or Torchon - probably because they are not used to teaching the beginner skills to progress to anything else. Go back beyond that, though, and even at four or five years of age you would have been learning the lace of the town/region in which you lived. In some places, like Honiton, and I suspect on the continent, that is still the case, but children would have started off learning the more complex laces - they would probably never have learned anything else! Some teachers like to make people think lace is difficult to learn in order to keep them coming to class, and not let them even think they could learn from books, DVDs or U-tube on their own. The first stage of learning to make lace is learning the self-confidence that tells you you can do it; after that, getting your hands to work the cross and twist movements, then to stop thinking about what you are doing and let your hands get on with the task - those are the difficult bits. Once that has clicked, then other than certain advanced techniques, the lace itself isn't all that complicated! In message 893662BF2DDA426AB8F380939BCD0A61@Cecily, Lyn Bailey lynrbai...@desupernet.net writes While it is possible, I know of no one who started in Binche. -- Jane Partridge - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/ - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/ - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
[lace] demonstrating
To draw in younger people you might also prepare a little card with links so some good lace sites and online discussion groups, as a handout. There are A LOT! Lorelei - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
Hi Spiders All, If the demo was in England, I could well have been the person who told the lady that there were two actions in bobbin lace! Once you have mastered the cross and the twist, those are the movements you make, with variations on numbers and twists etc. I also tell people that if they can count to four, they can make lace! I usually have several of my pillows with wip, with a tempting array of bobbins, as well as other 'sparkly' equipment, but also a couple of 'Have-A-Go' pillows -- usually one with the snake on, and the other a Torchon ground, so that they can see the more advanced laces, but also the beginner patterns, so they don't feel intimidated at the thought of starting to make lace. Carol - in North Noroflk UK. 'Deliver us, Lord, from every evil, and grant us peace in our day.' - Original Message - Cc: Sent: Thursday, 5 December 2013, 16:40 At one point someone came to a lace class that we were having and said that she had been told that there were really only two stitches, cross and twist and that after you learned how to do them you could do anything. We were a little stunned and the teacher didn't know how to proceed with this idea. Devon - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/ - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
Hello Carol and everyone I agree with Carol and others, it really is useful at a demo to be able to show the range of bobbin lace. I would take a simple project to work on, if not the have-a-go pillow itself, as well as another pillow with something more elaborate on it for comparison (also useful to work on during a lull). A piece of clear vinyl is tucked around it when one's attention is diverted - in case of helpful passersby. If carrying a lot of 'stuff' would be a problem, I take just one pillow, appropriate to the setting and particular crowd, and visuals (e.g. a photo album, lace magazines, finished examples) so that visitors could see at a glance other aspects of bobbin lace. I'm sure others do this too :) On Fri, Dec 6, 2013 at 4:06 AM, nestalace.ca...@btinternet.com wrote: ...Once you have mastered the cross and the twist, those are the movements you make, with variations on numbers and twists etc. ... I usually have several of my pillows with wip, so that they can see the more advanced laces -- Bev in Shirley BC, near Sooke on beautiful Vancouver Island, west coast of Canada - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
[lace] Demonstrating
I agree with Robin - I usually don't take a practice pillow, either - I let them do a few stitches of whatever I'm doing, after all, cross and twist are the same regardless of whether it is a bit of tape you are making or something that looks like (and is) lace! If a newspaper photographer can do a square of roseground, there is no reason why we have to confine people to cloth stitch. I take my lace pillow to work on when I'm travelling by train - with a table seat, I sometimes get company, and have had a brother and sister (aged about 7 and 9) do several different stitches by the time they reached their stop... by which time the Senior Conductress was interested, too! I also explain the number of pairs in relation to knitting (if they knit) - that we are only making one stitch at a time, using two pairs of bobbins - and compare the number of stitches to the fact that they aren't daunted by the huge number of stitches on their needles if they are working the back of a jumper! In message 20131205064327.0ZLPM.75308.root@cdptpa-web08, robinl...@socal.rr.com writes jeria...@aol.com wrote: A large fully-dressed pillow with many bobbins and dense pattern is discouraging and elicits the usual I don't have the patience!. This is not necessarily so. I've started using a wider torchon pattern (50+ pairs) for demonstration and I've had great reactions. -- Jane Partridge - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
jeria...@aol.com wrote: A large fully-dressed pillow with many bobbins and dense pattern is discouraging and elicits the usual I don't have the patience!. Speed reading slays my intent every so often. The word dense is important in above sentence. I have seen lacemakers with so many pins on a pillow that untrained eyes cannot see the lace developing in the area being worked. Yes, the finished lace is emerging from the back, but it really is not the best way to show the progression of lacemaking if there is only one lacemaker present. I am also thinking of those laces where bobbins require stacking. Stacks of bobbins can be intimidating! Worse still, is the grey-haired demonstrator who tells her audience it has taken a lifetime to learn to make lace and she has been working on this piece for X number of months or years.. You've lost a possible young lacemaker by then. We live in a time when almost instant gratification is expected. If the public comes first to a lace with open areas, like Torchon, the concept is easier to grasp. If that first lacemaker explains the equipment on her pillow and how bobbin lace is made, then hands them off to the person working something more challenging, that would be the way I'd prefer being introduced to bobbin lace if I knew nothing about the subject. We should not expect a person rushing through a demonstration area to grasp intricacies of the subject we love immediately. We are taught the A B C's, before we put the letters together and learn to read. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
Since we older lacers using paper books and such are geared to that, it is not surprising the younger generation has no interest. I found if i can trust my Xyboard not to fall, i have my pattern and pricking on it. Younger people wonder how you can use a tablet with a pillow so wander over and check it out. Even using a cell phone on some holder can make people look. if you have a really loud looking color cover, that draws the eye too. I wear a very simplistic pioneer outfit including the bed cap and wire rimmed reading glasses perched on the end of my nose. if nothing else, you get a smile but it is something that draws people to you. my table is a camera tripod with a plexiglas top where i put jar opener/shelf liner on so the pillow will stay put when i tilt it and i elevate the pillow to work on while standing. i have one small one and one larger one which i only use for demos. i can use a medium sized pillow and have room on the plexiglas to hold a light/magnifier/tablet. this can get uncomfortable so i have my piano stool at hand to sit. if you have one of those folding stools that are higher, that is a bit easier but also a bit harder on the back than regular height but not as bad as standing. anything unique and eye catching will bring people close to see. Happy lacing. Hugs, Lin and the Mali *Mistakes are beautiful. Mistakes are part of the fun.* - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
I am of two minds on the whole demonstration idea. On the one hand a simple piece like the snake or fish that a visitor could work is a nice idea. On the other hand, I showed a photo of my daughter working the snake to her grade school teacher, and the teacher, puzzled, said, where is the lace. A pillow with a clearly identifiable looking lace and lots of bobbins draws people to the demonstration, along with photographers looking for a good photo op. As Jeri says, one solution is multiple demonstrators. I guess another question is, what is the message we are trying to send and who are the people we are trying to influence. Are we looking to introduce bobbin lace technique to children who are looking for a new way to make friendship bracelets and lanyards, for which much simpler techniques perform quite adequately. Or are we looking to introduce it to people who want to take on a difficult and unusual craft that no one else does? A frequent source of inductees to lace are people who do historical re-enactments and really like a difficult and authentic craft. I sometimes wonder if it is a good idea to make lacemaking look simple, because then we are drawing in a group of people who are looking for something simple to do and we really can't deliver on that promise. At one point someone came to a lace class that we were having and said that she had been told that there were really only two stitches, cross and twist and that after you learned how to do them you could do anything. We were a little stunned and the teacher didn't know how to proceed with this idea. Devon - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
In effect, though, she was right. Once you know which move is cross, and which is twist, then by using combinations of those two moves you can do anything - even a tally or picot. Once you know the sound that letters of the alphabet make, you can start to put them together to make words - same principle. You might know the sounds, but it takes a little bit longer to learn to speak the language... same goes for lace, you know the moves, but you need to be able to read or interpret the pattern to know where to make them. As to teaching from there - start with the basic two moves - ie, half stitch, then gradually progress to cloth and ground stitches. Simples! Lace isn't as complicated as some demonstrators try to make out - more to make themselves seem superior because they can do it - whereas the aim of the demonstration is to show that most people, if they try, can make lace. Not everyone will take to it, though, so we shouldn't expect them to. In message b6698.3adb9511.3fd20...@aol.com, dmt11h...@aol.com writes At one point someone came to a lace class that we were having and said that she had been told that there were really only two stitches, cross and twist and that after you learned how to do them you could do anything. We were a little stunned and the teacher didn't know how to proceed with this idea. Devon -- Jane Partridge - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating strategy - Gossip Pillows
For our Newbies: It has been a few years since we discussed Gossip Pillows on Arachne. Suggest you go to archives and search Gossip Pillows. Two of my memos are near the top, and describe, with directions on where to see a photo on an IOLI Bulletin cover. http://www.mail-archive.com/lace@arachne.com/index.html It would be nice if someone would put a photo on our Arachne flickr. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center In a message dated 12/3/2013 9:47:23 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, linhud...@gmail.com writes: i frequently set up a card table at the library and give 4 people at a time the opportunity. i have 2 pieces of square thick foam covered totally in cloth for triers and then carry 7 cookie pillows for 2 more. light weight and small. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating strategy - Gossip Pillows
A couple of years ago at a demonstration, one of the lace makers brought a 24 cookie pillow for beginners to make a snake. The enterprising lace maker had put 4 prickings on the pillow (along each point of the compass: north, south, east and west) and had 4 children work at the same time. It was an extremely good use of limited demonstration space and the children loved being able to keep an eye on what the others were doing and who was working the fastest. While this is not exactly a gossip pillow, it is a good strategy for demonstrating - with adults as well as children. Jill in Milton Keynes, Bucks - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
[lace] Demonstrating strategy
I agree that a few bobbins, not uncountable numbers, is a much less intimidating picture. Also a relatively clear pillow. Not a lot of pin cushions or tools around. Few tools or other paraphernalia in view. I am demonstrating most Sundays at church so people have a better understanding of what is going into making the altar cloth for the side altar. I use everything on the pillow that I use at home, except the lamp, as 40/2 linen doesn't really need a lamp in full daylight. This is so they appreciate the labor and concentration involved. I also put a colored thread in loosely every Sunday so they can see the progress. That's where I was last Sunday, and this is where I am today, and I work at least an hour every morning. Remember that most Americans have never seen bobbin lace. If I were doing a demo to invite people to try it, I would do a much simpler lace with many fewer pairs, although 40/2 is a good thread to use. I would clear my pillow of all possible tools and extras, as they make the project look more complicated. The idea is to make it look like anyone can do it. Part of my 'patter' is the two steps of any stitch, and when I talk about moving #2 bobbin over #3, I stop to say, Now you could do that, couldn't you? And they always nod yes. Then on to the twist, and and a similar phrase, with a similar response. This shows them that they can do it. Demonstrating is teaching and theater, and anything you can do to set the stage for the point you want to prove is a good thing to consider. Lyn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA where we are having appropriate weather which is more pleasant than usual. Right now no rain, temperatures always above freezing. Good time to see Christmas lights at night. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
RE: [lace] Demonstrating strategy
...Demonstrating is teaching and theater, and anything you can do to set the stage for the point you want to prove is a good thing to consider Love this statement! It is so true. I have done the wide lace with 126 bobbins (see http://www.brandis.com.au/craft/Lace/201305.html and it is the one with Merlin the cat) at the local markets and got lots of admiring comments but it is when I demo on the 28 pair length (see http://www.brandis.com.au/craft/Lace/201305.html and it is the blue one) that I get people willing to have a go. Now reading the message about less is best I am going to do a tape lace animal or three (probably snake or lizard) for display and alternate between the 'easy' animal and the blue length as I need to do 3 more metres of the blue. Regards Jenny Brandis Kununurra, Western Australia je...@brandis.com.au www.brandis.com.au - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
Re: [lace] Demonstrating strategy
I set up the Springett snake because it gives an alternative color down the middle and can be made rapidly even for new triers. it lets them follow the path of the bobbins. it has few bobbins and i use a metallic thread in the middle to give glitter to it which also is appealing. i pre-wind bobbins in sets and take at least 3 pillows with me so hopefully they will take the time to work on it and finish it to take home. i also make sure i have a bead for the eye. it is fast and is lovely. if you have time beforehand, you can make up some in the colors you take as kits and let them work until they have to go and then just give them the one you made in those colors and another trier can finish it up and take home the one made by two people. i like to send them home with something because then they admire it and think i can do this. a list of supplies needed to get started (only for this simple pattern as supplies can get overwhelming if they see all the will eventually use as they develop can also be handed out. you also can have 3-4 triers doing it at the same time. i frequently set up a card table at the library and give 4 people at a time the opportunity. i have 2 pieces of square thick foam covered totally in cloth for triers and then carry 7 cookie pillows for 2 more. light weight and small. my prickings are also prepared and pricked ahead. i carry at least 10 with me when i go to a demonstration. i use a tripod table which i can elevate for them to stand and see me work but also lower so i can sit down on my piano stool which has a back and glass claw feet. if i don't carry my cup of tea, i can carry all of the above in one trip. i haven't made a cup holder to drape over my shoulder yet. but the tripod has a cup holder and if i can keep it upright over my shoulder, i can put my spill-proof cup in it. that tho is iffy. one other thought is to start the snake and go until you have the bead for the eye in place and let them go from there. this pattern also lends itself to roller pillows that have narrow rollers. i make the same pattern so i have a supply of finished ones for the next demo. Hugs, Lin and the Mali *Mistakes are beautiful. Mistakes are part of the fun.* - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
[lace] Demonstrating at South Cave
Good morning all I am pleased to tell you that on Sunday 17th June 2012, 10.a.m until 4.p.m. several ladies representing Wolds Lacemakers will be demonstrating their lacemaking skills and will also have a display of various types of lace set up at Olde English Furniture, Sands Lane, South Cave, East Yorkshire, HU15 2JQ UK in aid of 65 Roses (cystic fibrosis). We will also have a couple of 'have a go' lace pillows on the stand with Christine Springett's snakes set up. If you are in the area on that day, please do come and see us and say hello. We would love to see you. We hope that we have as much interest as we had at our recent demonstration for the Diamond Jubilee. Maureen Bromley Wolds Lacemakers E Yorks UK - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003/albums/most-recent
[lace] Demonstrating for the Diamond Jubilee
Good morning I am pleased to advise everyone that Wolds Lacemakers, which is based in the UK, East Yorkshire/Lincolnshire area, will be demonstrating our lacemaking skills at Ferens Art Gallery, Hull from 12 noon to 4.p.m. as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations that are being organised by Hull City Council. We aim to further promote lace and lacemaking within the area. We will also have on display a few photographs showing the lace jabot and cuffs which a few of us made, at her request, for the current High Sheriff of Yorkshire. If anyone wants any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Regards Maureen Bromley (Wolds Lacemakers) - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003/albums/most-recent
[lace] Demonstrating at Christmas Tree festival
Hi It's nearly 2 weeks since I did my demonstration at our church's Christmas Tree festival and I thought I ought to let you all know how I got on. It was an interesting experience. I was there all day on Saturday, apart from going home for lunch and for about 4 hours on Sunday afternoon. I certainly had a few good conversations, and explained how lace is made to several people, including a friend's husband, who seemed to understand the process. A couple of small boys were fascinated by the spiders I was doing and made a point of counting the legs on all of them. And one small girl wanted to have a go and did several stitches of ground for me. I doubt very much whether anyone will want to start making lace as a result of this, but you never know. The good thing was that I was making bookmarks to sell for our building project and I sold the 5 I had already made plus the one I made on Saturday and the one I started on Sunday. I was using one of my own designs. But I was wondering whether anyone knows whether it would be violating copyright if I were to use someone else's design and sell it for charity? Alison in cold and windy Colchester, Essex, UK - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
[lace] Demonstrating at Christmas Tree festival
In message c546551ff307cf428001639e689f106f04a03...@mbx2-node2.essex.ac.uk, Gray, Alison J ag...@essex.ac.uk writes I was using one of my own designs. But I was wondering whether anyone knows whether it would be violating copyright if I were to use someone else's design and sell it for charity? Technically, yes, you would be. It is the same reason why dressmakers are supposed to buy a fresh copy of a commercial pattern for each garment they make from it. However, you will probably find that most lace designers are happy for you to raise funds for charity from their designs, all you need do is ask - I had a lovely letter (giving permission) from Christine Springett when I asked if I could use her snake pattern for this purpose (raising funds in that case for our local hospice - that was in 1991, when I designed my Giles the Dog bookmark for the same fete). You, Alison, are welcome to use any of my patterns which have been published (in Lace, Canadian Lacemaker Gazette and the Penguin Pattern Book) - but I would appreciate it if anyone else uses any of my patterns for fundraising or adaptation, etc, they ask first and email me a picture of the results afterwards! -- Jane Partridge - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
[lace] demonstrating lace
Don't give up - enquire as to next year, or the year after - museums often book schedules 18 months to three years in advance, so that they can get their publicity material printed and distributed in time. Write to them with your proposal, and suggest that you could arrange to call in if they wished to discuss things further. Some years ago I spent some very nice Friday afternoons demonstrating lacemaking at our local castle (which is also the town's museum) - in the courtyard, but retreating to the Great Hall on wet days. It has meant that I have had invites back when they have had craft events, and also led to photos in the local paper. (I have a photograph of one of our (male) newspaper photographers having a go, too!). I was working on my Hearts Flowers Snowflake at the time, and got quite a bit done on those Friday afternoons, the challenge was to get past the slightly complex bits before being besieged by visitors! On one occasion, due to the speaking model in one of the displays, one young lad was too frightened to go into the castle at all - so he stayed making lace with me whilst the rest of the family went round the castle - I was in the courtyard, and they could see and wave to him from the battlements! In message 20111021013244.I6W50.106231.root@cdptpa-web28-z02, hottl...@neo.rr.com writes Hello All! Looks like everyone was thinking about how to promote lace/lacemaking today--Bravo! Well I took the plunge contacted Flagler Museum. There is a lovely place to make lace on the south porch in the shade of the bougainvillea. Their schedule is already booked for the season. Oh well, I tried. Sincerely, Susan Hottle, Erie, PA USA -- Jane Partridge - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
Re: [lace] demonstrating lace
Oh well, I tried. Sincerely, Susan Hottle, Erie, PA USA Dear Susan, et al, Don't give up yet. The other question is whether there is a place in public where you can make lace. Is there a place at the Flagler that has benches? I can virtually guarantee there are no signs saying, NO LACE MAKING ALLOWED. Anything stopping you from making lace at the local mall where people can sit? Preferably close to the craft or yarn shop. Can you bring your lace to the local knitting store that has knitting in the evening. At the local crafts fair, are you allowed to sit and make lace without paying for a booth if you're not selling anything? You do have a sheet of paper to give out listing places where interested people can get more information, but nothing for sale, certainly no financial benefit to you. If you list suppliers, would that change anything? Is there an art school nearby where they have textiles as a subject, so to speak, and may you make lace in the lobby around lunchtime? Is the local library open to you sitting and making lace? We like to take cruises. You get spoiled rotten for really a reasonable amount of money if you do your research properly. When I was working, the days at sea was when I did a lot of my lacemaking. Doing that in a public place gets all sorts of people to stop and ask questions. That's really all you want. In the Carribean, there's a lot to be said for lacemaking by the pool, in your chaise. I never go into the pool. I have a picture of someone taking a picture of me making lace on the Commons in Bar Harbor, Maine, USA, which is a tourist town. Now that cruises stop at Bar Harbor, it is even more busy. Demonstrating at events is an excellent idea, but generally they come around only once a year. With some thought, there are plenty of other places, especially when the weather is nice, where you can simply sit down and start making lace. Bring your own chair, if necessary. When it gets cold, go indoors to public places. Not the tired old mall, but the new vibrant one. Our local mall is large, with spokes going out from a central hub, where sometimes there are seats. Perhaps your local quilting shop is amenable, if you don't take up too much space. There are two approaches to indoor events, or even outdoor ones where you're not sitting at a park bench or some other seating area. Just go, plunk yourself down so as to be very visible, but out of the way of foot traffic paths, and see what happens. Or go to the municipal office, or the safety office, and ask permission. I suspect either would work. This is for the US, where, as far as I know, there is virtually no insurance considerations to be met. There may be zoning ordinances and the like on the books, but the real question is whether they will be enforced against a respectable looking woman sitting down and doing what is clearly akin to her knitting. At the very worst, someone official will tell you that you may not sit here. Remember, the US is also the place where, to my knowledge at least, there is no law forbidding one to give out others' email addresses. It might not be a good or considerate idea, but there is no law against it. Our copyright infringement laws also seem to be a bit more lax, and I know of no library that pays a fee for the copying of book pages, although I may be wrong there, but I don't think so. It might get a trifle more tricky if you've got a have-a-go pillow, because that would carve out a larger space than just you and your lace table, but with thought it should still be possible in many places. That's how I got hooked at the Newnan, Georgia, US, craft show in 1979. The head lady was Betty, and she was English, but lived in Atlanta. I'd still like to be able to thank her. Does anyone know the lady, and what has happened to her? Some places for the summer include, but certainly are not limited to: the outdoor concerts on the lawn in the park, where people gather before the concert to get a good place. In Central Park, in New York City, near the south east entrance, where there are people going to and fro all day. Ditto for Union Park near 14th street, where there is a farmer's market on Saturdays.. Or outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art, especially on a weekend. There are vendors out there, and I don't know if a permit is required, nor do I recall if there are benches, but it's worth a thought. Outside Central Market in my own Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where the tourists come in the summer, and you can sit outside for as long as you want, making lace. Lyn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US, where the weathermen got it wrong again, and we are in for a bright, sunny, beautiful fall day. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site:
Re: [lace] demonstrating lace/NY
In a message dated 10/21/2011 9:16:33 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, lynrbai...@desupernet.net writes: Or outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art, especially on a weekend. There are vendors out there, and I don't know if a permit is required, nor do I recall if there are benches, but it's worth a thought. Interesting question. What is the definition of loitering and is it still illegal? I recently read an article about the food vendors. It appears that the hot dog vendor pays $250,000 a year to have his spot in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is paid to the city because they own the side walk. It is one of the most valuable places to sell hot dogs in New York. However, there is an old law that veterans can sell on public sidewalks for free. So a rival hot dog vendor has gone into partnership with a veteran whose role is to nap on a chair by the hot dog stand and handle the paperwork. This is causing a lot of discord because those people who have paid for the spot feel that the value of their spot has been decreased. Do we have any veterans on the list? I am not sure that the issue of whether one may legally demonstrate lace on a bench outside the Metropolitan Museum is likely to come up, though, because a very interesting event involving young people in the fashion industry called Culture Push was looking for a lace demonstration, and I couldn't find anyone who would take a lace pillow into New York for it. It was billed as collaborative skill sharing which meant unpaid, but still... It would have been a good event, but we couldn't figure out how to make it work. I even implored people at the regional meeting of my region at the convention to go, but there was not much enthusiasm. In fact, almost immediately the conversation shifted to the idea of teaching elementary age children in scouts, and hoping that they would come back to it as adults. I realize that many of us, myself included, are not up for exciting city driving, expensive parking, and hauling a ton of goods to a demo in the city. I really can only do it if my husband drives and hauls the equipment. Perhaps we need a lace swat team, ready to drop in, like the fire jumpers, to difficult locations in need of a lace demo. The Church of Craft , is dedicated to the idea that craft is good for the soul. I went to one of the monthly events in Brooklyn in which young people just gather and do crafts together and there was some interest among the young people who were there in it. I met a young man who knits platypuses, who was quite interested. There is another entity, Etsy, which has evenings in which people get together to do crafts. In fact, at one time they were looking for people to lead others in a craft activity that might even be videotaped and beamed to all the other Etsys. This would be good if someone were interested in doing it. It has to be short and it has to be something that people arriving at different times can do. The fish would be an obvious choice. Why don't you look up these places if you want to do a demo that would be seen by young people. Of course these events tend to be in cities, and we tend to be in suburbs, at least in my particular metro area. But then, the other problem is what do we do if they want to learn? Because there is no lace instruction in New York, and most of the young people do not have cars, and are unable to travel to New Jersey for lace instruction, which, while it exists, is not that easy to access. There are several textile/craft schools in New York that would probably be happy to add lace to a curriculum that already has felting and shibori on it, but there is no one to teach at these places. (Anyone who has ever tried to learn anything from me will confirm that I am a lousy teacher.) Also, a curriculum that includes design and non-traditional fibers would be more interesting than a more traditional one. But designing such a curriculum would take time and skill. Devon - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
Re: [lace] demonstrating lace/NY
Without going to my handy dandy crimes code, the crime of loitering is something like being in one place in public too long, without a legitimate purpose. It is used when they want you to go away, and whatever you are doing doesnât qualify as another offense. So respectable people who stand on a corner and just stand there are not approached by the cops, but if youâre standing on a corner, in a nice part of town, but you are unkempt, unwashed, and donât blend into the neighborhood, AND refuse to leave after being told forcibly to leave, they might arrest you arrest you for loitering. Regulation of vendors is not my area of expertise, but I suspect the cops, who are the doorkeepers of the loitering law, would not take an adverse position to someone sitting out of the major foot traffic, merely sitting making lace, who clearly is not selling anything, nor creating a disturbance, does not look unsavory. You bring up another issue for demonstrating. Lugging equipment. Since I am used to lacemaking whilst traveling, my cookie pillows are polystyrene, and I have pared my equipment down to exactly what I will need. Everything else stays home. I have a stool that folds and weighs 2 pounds (1 kilo) and yet holds my Queenly weight. If my weight were at goal Iâd use the one that weighs a bit more than a pound. My lace table folds down and down. It is an InStand, which is the gizmo used by court reporters to hold their machines, (instand.com and amazon.com, usual disclaimers.) If I were 10 years younger, I could carry all that from my home in Lancaster, on the train, on the subway, to the Museum, no problem. As it is, with issues of walking and carrying things, Iâd probably put it all in a wheeled carryon, and do it that way. Still not heavy. Devon, if thereâs a nice sunny day left this year, call me and if Iâm available, Iâll take the train (3 hours each way) and meet you at the entrance to the Met. Bring a chair. We can test this out and report to the list. But you provide lunch. Lyn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US, where the sun has gone away, and maybe the weatherman was right after all. From: dmt11h...@aol.com Sent: Friday, October 21, 2011 10:09 AM To: lynrbai...@desupernet.net Cc: lace@arachne.com Subject: Re: [lace] demonstrating lace/NY In a message dated 10/21/2011 9:16:33 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, lynrbai...@desupernet.net writes: Or outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art, especially on a weekend. There are vendors out there, and I don't know if a permit is required, nor do I recall if there are benches, but it's worth a thought. Interesting question. What is the definition of loitering and is it still illegal? I recently read an article about the food vendors. It appears that the hot dog vendor pays $250,000 a year to have his spot in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is paid to the city because they own the side walk. It is one of the most valuable places to sell hot dogs in New York. However, there is an old law that veterans can sell on public sidewalks for free. So a rival hot dog vendor has gone into partnership with a veteran whose role is to nap on a chair by the hot dog stand and handle the paperwork. This is causing a lot of discord because those people who have paid for the spot feel that the value of their spot has been decreased. Do we have any veterans on the list? I am not sure that the issue of whether one may legally demonstrate lace on a bench outside the Metropolitan Museum is likely to come up, though, because a very interesting event involving young people in the fashion industry called Culture Push was looking for a lace demonstration, and I couldn't find anyone who would take a lace pillow into New York for it. It was billed as collaborative skill sharing which meant unpaid, but still... It would have been a good event, but we couldn't figure out how to make it work. I even implored people at the regional meeting of my region at the convention to go, but there was not much enthusiasm. In fact, almost immediately the conversation shifted to the idea of teaching elementary age children in scouts, and hoping that they would come back to it as adults. I realize that many of us, myself included, are not up for exciting city driving, expensive parking, and hauling a ton of goods to a demo in the city. I really can only do it if my husband drives and hauls the equipment. Perhaps we need a lace swat team, ready to drop in, like the fire jumpers, to difficult locations in need of a lace demo. The Church of Craft , is dedicated to the idea that craft is good for the soul. I went to one of the monthly events in Brooklyn in which young people just gather and do crafts together and there was some interest among the young people who were there in it. I met a young man who knits platypuses, who was quite interested. There is another entity, Etsy, which has evenings in which people get together to do crafts. In fact, at one time they were
[lace] demonstrating lace
Another place without quite as much traffic... the car dealership! LOL My car needed some work so I brought my tatting and sat in the waiting room, in the sun, and tatted! Time passes a lot quicker that way, as well :_) Lauren in WA - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
RE: [lace] demonstrating lace
I've done tatting at the dentist And the doctors, in the queue. Now I'll add tatting in my pocket When the car is serviced, too ...Noelene in Cooma nlaffe...@ozemail.com.au Another place without quite as much traffic... the car dealership! LOL My car needed some work so I brought my tatting and sat in the waiting room, in the sun, and tatted! Time passes a lot quicker that way, as well :_) Lauren in WA - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
[lace] demonstrating lace
Hello All! Looks like everyone was thinking about how to promote lace/lacemaking today--Bravo! Well I took the plunge contacted Flagler Museum. There is a lovely place to make lace on the south porch in the shade of the bougainvillea. Their schedule is already booked for the season. Oh well, I tried. Sincerely, Susan Hottle, Erie, PA USA - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
[lace] Demonstrating Bobbinlace at county fair
Had a good three days of demonstrating bobbin lace at the community building where the handicrafts exhibits were located at our local fair. I am working on Bucks Point Lace in black thread. I know.not traditional for Bucks, but I like black lace! I a using a Danish style roller pillow that I had made and using midland spangled bobbins. Below is a couple of videos of me demonstrating bobbinlace: http://youtu.be/niroI-RHV0k -- Mark, aka Tatman website: http://www.tat-man.net blog: http://tat-man.net/blog Magic Thread Shop: http://www.tat-man.net/tatterville/tatshop/tatshop.html email: tat...@tat-man.net Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TatmanBobbin - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
[lace] Demonstrating at Lincoln Log Cabin
That looks like a very soggy weekend, Mark. What an interesting place, though. Loved looking at the photos. And your lace looks Very Nice, too. Regards from Liz in Melbourne lizl...@bigpond.com - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachnemodera...@yahoo.com
[lace] Demonstrating at Lincoln Log Cabin
Rain, Rain, Go Away!!! That is what it did all last weekend while my wife and I demonstrated at the Lincoln Log Cabin near Lerna, IL. YUCKY!! MESSY!! Saturday wasn't too bad. There were some breaks in the spitting rain. No real downpours. And we did have some visitors. We were set up at the Thomas and Sara Lincoln's log cabin grounds. There was even an encampment down the hill from the Sargent farm. It got flooded on Sunday so much you could canoe your way out. I never made it down there to see it. Too busy trying to stay dry! It was great to see the River City Tatting club and other friends. They demonstrated tatting of course while I demonstrated bobbinlace in the tent next to them. Sunday was a total mess and they thought about cancelling, but we demonstrators are tough and we just closed our tents and gathered in the cabin and had a good time working on our projects, chatting by a fire. Occasionally there would be some brave visitors coming out in this rain. Below is a slideshow of pictures I took of the event we did at Lincoln Log Cabin near Lerna, IL. ENJOY! http://tat-man.net/LLC_5-2010.html Here is a picture of me demonstrating bobbin lace in the Lincoln Cabin on the rainy Sunday this past weekend. I was working on a Bruges Flower Lace doily. It is something showy for the public. Doesn't require too many bobbins and gets the work done fast so the public can see progress. http://tinyurl.com/2ewogsk Here is a close up of the lace I was working on http://tinyurl.com/23sqzqy -- Mark, aka Tatman website: http://www.tat-man.net blog: http://tat-man.net/blog Magic Thread Shop: http://www.tat-man.net/tatterville/tatshop/tatshop.html email: tat...@tat-man.net - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachnemodera...@yahoo.com
[lace] Demonstrating/television
On Saturday and Sunday six of the Land of Lincoln Lacemakers in Illinois did a demonstration on behalf of the Illinois Arts Council. We had a great time, made even more pleasant in that we were paid to demonstrate, plus our meals, travel and hotel were paid for by the Arts Council. Everything was so well organised even down to the large cooler containing bottled water by our canopy which was greatly appreciated as we worked in the sun and heat. With six present, we were able to enjoy seeing the delights of Bishop Hill, a village that was originally a Swedish communal settlement, along with viewing the other exhibitors work and listening to the many folk singers that performed in the main stage area. The lacemakers were required to speak on the Narrative stage and demonstrate on another stage whilst answering questions, plus we also had pillows set up for our time slot in the childrens area. The talks were for a lot longer than we thought but our members put on a good show. Saturday was glorious weather but Sunday started with a thunderstorm. Most of the other exhibitors set up their displays in various indoor venues but as soon as the rain had passed we set up our lace exhibits and sales table back in the park. As there was little to see in the park we became the main attraction and a magnet for the many tv cameras that came by. The Illinois Arts Council was making a documentary movie and Arachne, Sylvie Nyguen became our spokesperson and did a great job for the interview. We were all hard pressed to keep quiet whilst she answered the very intelligent questions of the camerman. He then came to each of us in turn and asked about our lace. We were making a variety of laces on different types of pillows. Arachne Diane Williams was working Ipswich lace on a bolster pillow. I was doing a Jean Leader circular Beds rose design from her new booklet using lots of bobbins. Others were doing Russian, Torchon, yardage or tape laces We overheard a tv group from WTTW, the Chicago public broadcasting station, ask for use of his footage so we might see ourselves on their programming at some time in the future. After I got home I had a call from Diane to say that she had seen me featured on the CBS Channel 4 station from the Quad Cities. I am out of that area so did not see it. It seems they opened with a close up shot of a Beds design of mine which filled the tv screen and then showed Brenda Glenn and I working at our pillows. If you want to see that design you will have to come to the IOLI convention in 2008! I think Brenda and I were the only ones manning the table when the Channel 4 camerwoman came by. I showed her my prize winning table ribbon, Ribbon du Vin, but she had packed her camera up by then. The ribbon was closely filmed by the Arts Council guy but I am not sure if and when that footage will be seen. We are all hoping that we are asked back again when the folk festival is being held in Illinois in 3 years time. We exposed hundreds of people to lacemaking and never once had a visit from the tatting lady. Maybe everyone should ask their state arts councils if they need demonstrators, it might be a good opportunity to further the cause of lace. Janice Janice Blair Crystal Lake, 50 miles northwest of Chicago, Illinois, USA http://www.lacemakersofillinois.org/ - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[lace] Demonstrating
Further to Carole's comment about being asked to pay to demonstrate. I belong to the Isis Lacemakers, and we like to demonstrate lacemaking wherever we are asked. We occasionally get asked to pay for our tables, but when we explain that we do not sell, and in fact will be out of pocket(travelling etc), but do it because we enjoy it (and hope to educate the public, as well as making a few converts), then that is usually OK. Sometimes we are even provided with refreshments, and once we were offered travelling expanses (but turned them down as we were all fairly local). Over the years we have heard many strange and amusing comments while demonstrating, but the most outrageous came at our Lace Fair, held last weekend. The entry fee was only £1.50, for which you got access to 20 top class suppliers, very reasonably priced home made cakes etc, and our usual mammoth tombola (prize every time!). Two lacemakers arrived and asked As we only want to look at the stalls for an hour or so, do we still have to pay? I was almost speechless, and could only reply Yes, just like everyone else. They paid up, but left me wondering, if they have any idea of the work involved in organising such an event, the cost of hiring the hall etc. Not to mention the fact that a large proportion of any profits goes to charity! Luckily, most lacemakers are friendly and grateful, and quick to say so, and make it all worth while. Christine (Oxford, England) - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: [lace] demonstrating, it's tatting! and bobbins
In a message dated 04/04/2005 23:41:55 GMT Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: One woman came up and said that she used to make lace, but couldn't now as her grip has gone and the bobbins slide through her fingers. Off the top of my head I passed on the thought that if something like the adhesive foam used for window insulation (and the grip bits in bobbin winders!) was stuck onto the body of the bobbins, making them easier to pick up, that might help? She thought it was a good idea, and I think she might try, but has anyone else any thoughts on this? There is a type of bandage (described as cohesive) which is used for horses legs and other veterinary purposes. It sticks to itself but is not sticky to the touch (if that makes sense) and is stretchy enough to be able to make it wrap tightly around a thin, not straight object (ie a lace bobbin, or the inner ring of an embroidery hoop). It is similar to the stuff you put under things to stop them slipping, but is thinner and more flexible. You should be able to buy it fairly easily at a tack shop or feed merchants. Jacquie - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[lace] demonstrating, it's tatting! and bobbins
I spent yesterday in Doncaster, (South Yorkshire, UK) demonstrating lace at a Card, Craft and Stamping Show with Anne Weston (Chairman of The Guild of Needlelaces) - Anne takes her needlelace, I take bobbin. (Next Sunday we'll be at Edgbaston Cricket Ground if anyone is in the Birmingham area and not going to The Lace Guild Convention, and then Sheffield on the 24th.) Half way through the day, a woman with two young girls came to see what we were doing, and the girls (approx 10 year olds) both had a go at doing a stitch in my lace - they were very shy, but the one who tried first did another stitch after her friend/sister had had a go, and got it right without guidance from me. A minute or so later, she came over with a two pound coin in her hand, and asked if I would like it for showing her - I refused, of course, and thanked her for the thought. It really made me feel appreciated, though! Later, two women, one saying it's tatting and the other correcting her that we were lacemaking - but, I think I have found the reason for the tatting lady's insistence. I took it back this morning, so can't refer to the title now, but there is a book on the history of the Nottingham lace industry from the late 1700s to 1950s. In that, it defines tatting as a machine made geometric lace, similar to torchon. Hence the confusion. In this case, the friend got the last word in! One woman came up and said that she used to make lace, but couldn't now as her grip has gone and the bobbins slide through her fingers. Off the top of my head I passed on the thought that if something like the adhesive foam used for window insulation (and the grip bits in bobbin winders!) was stuck onto the body of the bobbins, making them easier to pick up, that might help? She thought it was a good idea, and I think she might try, but has anyone else any thoughts on this? I got the feeling that a lace teacher in Pontefract and a bobbin turner in the Doncaster area would be a good idea - there seems to be a hole around there! Is there anyone in the area? I got the first side of a square mat (I'm working it in Texere's Galloway linen - the grid is 10 to the inch rather than metric) done during the day - it was one I doodled about a year or so ago, and it stayed on the graph paper ever since waiting to be done - I'm not sure about the centre at the moment, will wait till it is finished to see if it could have done with another cloth area, but the pattern will probably end up being sent to Bev for the CLG - watch this space but don't hold your breath! -- Jane Partridge -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.308 / Virus Database: 266.9.1 - Release Date: 01/04/2005 - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: [lace] Demonstrating
In a message dated 18/12/2004 18:06:28 GMT Standard Time, Betty Ann writes: I surely wasn't negating demonstrating lacemaking *anywhere* when I made my comment about doing so at Craft Fairs. I love being able to sit and make lace all day, have all the attention focused on my art, and enjoy conversations with the passer-bys. Lunch is usually included and sometimes I get a stipend for my travel expenses. Betty Ann, Neither was I, it's one of those things that you put up with about demonstrating - the tatting lady, the sting people, the bet you could make money at that if you sold it etc in order to meet that one person who wants to make lace and having seen you thinks it might ok to have a go. I love making lace and I love showing people how to make lace - and chatting to people - what could be better Regards Liz in London I'm back blogging my latest lace piece - have a look by clicking on the link or going to http://journals.aol.com/thelacebee/thelacebee - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: [lace] Demonstrating at craft Fairs
In a message dated 16/12/2004 19:34:12 GMT Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Betty Ann in Roanoke Virginia said Many years ago I demonstrated lace at a Craft Fair in my hometown - only 'cause it *was* my hometown. One of the comments that has stayed with me came from a teenager who stood and watched me do bobbin lace for awhile then said, Goly! I'd bet you'd get five dollar a yard fer that stuff! That was my last Craft Show demonstration. When I used to do reenactment I would take my lace with me and work on a piece - usually honiton because it fitted in with the period. People would come up and say 'tatting' or 'wish I was able to sew' () and all the usually things. Then some bright spark would say - bet you make lots of money at that, selling it to these people doing the reenactment. You smile and you simply say - they couldn't afford it, just as they wouldn't have been able to afford it back in the 1640s - it was a rich person's thing to own - but unlike now, I'd have been able to make a living at it. Wow they would say and you'd smile and just carry on. It's all part of the fun!!! of demonstrating. Personally, there were two things I liked doing at a reenactment - cooking or making lace - and making lace meant that I got pieces finished that I wouldn't have found the time to do else where because when else do you get two whole days to make lace and people bring you food whilst you do it!! Regards Liz in London I'm back blogging my latest lace piece - have a look by clicking on the link or going to http://journals.aol.com/thelacebee/thelacebee - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[lace] Demonstrating
Diana.Pickford writes: Betty Ann in Roanoke Virginia said, Many years ago I demonstrated lace at a Craft Fair in my hometown - only 'cause it *was* my hometown. One of the comments that has stayed with me came from a teenager who stood and watched me do bobbin lace for awhile then said, Goly! I'd bet you'd get five dollar a yard fer that stuff! That was my last Craft Show demonstration. ~~ Liz in London writes: It's all part of the fun!!! of demonstrating. Personally, there were two things I liked doing at a reenactment - cooking or making lace - and making lace meant that I got pieces finished that I wouldn't have found the time to do else where because when else do you get two whole days to make lace and people bring you food whilst you do it!! ~~ I surely wasn't negating demonstrating lacemaking *anywhere* when I made my comment about doing so at Craft Fairs. I love being able to sit and make lace all day, have all the attention focused on my art, and enjoy conversations with the passer-bys. Lunch is usually included and sometimes I get a stipend for my travel expenses. With all the other facets of my life, volunteerism, UDC work, charting family cemeteries, genealogy, study of the American Civil War, and travel, I pick and choose my own pleasure. I have only so many days I can devote to demonstrating, so I choose historic homes and historic venues over the craft fairs. I don't actively recruit anyone as a student of bobbin lace; if they are interested, I give them a card and they can contact me. I also give them a ball park figure of the cost of pursuing this art. The Blue Ridge Lace Guild has two beginner pillow starter sets with everything included and each is lent for 2 months; instruction included. They have to put a deposit on the equipment. During that time, I used to help the student make (or made it alone) a pillow, lending them bobbins, thread, pins, pricker, card, etc. Then I decided that I wanted to spend more time making lace and less making pillows, I began telling the prospective students up front what they'd be expected to order from the vendors during the time they were using the loaner kit, and I guided them in the selection of pillows, thread, bobbins, etc. from the vendors catalogues. Works for me! Betty Ann in Roanoke, Virginia 24019 Just my $2 worth; I don't come cheap - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[lace] Demonstrating at Lace Fairs
You never know what impact a demonstration will have on someone. I received a phone call a few weeks ago from a gentleman whose wife had died recently. She had seen us demonstrating and had tried it herself. He had 2 pillows and some accessories to donate to the Lost Art Lacers knowing that we would be able to find someone to use them. They did not live very close to our group although they were frequently in the area. I was very surprised to have him drop off a very nice swedish roller pillow and a Christina pillow! Both were in pristine condition. There were some threads and bobbins and some sample pieces in heavy thread so she had not done very much nor had she found the teacher that was close to her area. There were also newspaper clippings about our group's meetings and events from the early 80's that she had saved. He had remembered me and the Lost Art Lacers and had gone to the internet to find us. I am sorry that I did not get to meet her or help her with lacemaking. Lee Daly in NW New Jersey - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[lace] Demonstrating
Dear Lacers, In line with the comments on demonstrating, I just did a demonstration for our local historical society and the annual candlelight tour of their collection of historic houses. Along with the usual 'tatting ladies' a young man stopped by. He said he had seen us demonstrating at this same venue as a child and he just wanted to tell us what a memorable impression it had made on him. Very satisfying. I have demonstrated in all sort of places for MANY years and I can't think of a comment that has meant more. Even if your demonstration does not recruit another lacemaker, it does have an impact. So have fun demonstrating, teach someone, impress someone, enchant someone, you will be the richer for it. Judy, in cold and wet Houston, TX - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[lace] demonstrating lace...and the tatting lady! and some Honiton lace
Hi All, My apologies if this isn't lace-y enough to be here. I was recently in the US to give a presentation on European bobbin laces at a textile/needle arts festival that my mother helped organize in Hammondsport, NY, and also took one of my pillows and some bobbins so that I could do some demonstrating. Nearly all of my slides were from the VA's wonderful collection in the open galleries. OK, so they have a lot of needle lace, but it was useful to be able to show the differences between various types of lace (crochet, tatted, NL, BL). One thing for those of you perhaps planning to photograph in those galleries: you can use flash, although not having the reflection of the flash show up on the glass can be difficult. If you ask ahead, you can arrange a tripod permit, and that will let you shoot without a flash. The lighting in the gallery is fluorescent, so if you do not use flash but want colors to be normal rather than the disgusting yellow-green that film gets under fluorescent, you need tungsten-balanced film. I used Kodak (no ties at all to the big yellow box people, just a satisfied customer) 160T, so the ASA was 160. Using a tripod and no flash, I could do half-second exposures at f-stop 2.8, and generally get a good exposure. One hint, though, a shutter release cord is good! There are a lot of my slides where my ghost shows up in the glass. Oh dear. Anyway, I helped hang the exhibit (quilts, lace out of my collection, and various types of stitching) on Friday 30th April. I was expecting someone to make a comment during the exhibit itself about tatting, but NO. One of the other volunteers and I were discussing where I live, why I had come all the way back to the US for just 5 days, and so on. I explained that I would be demonstrating bobbin lace all weekend and was looking forward to the time at the pillow. She told me that evening as she left that she hoped I enjoyed my tatting! What topped it off, though, was one of the first visitors through the door on Saturday 1st May. This one walked up to my mother, who was sitting working on a needlepoint canvas, and said oh, my such lovely tatting you're working on! Oh dear. It really was quite fun. I worked on Wedding Bells from the Cook/Stott 100 Traditional Patterns book, and managed to get a whole repeat and a half done in two days. what progress! But it was a good time; I managed to really intrigue some people, including a college junior who will be spending the coming school year in Brussels, and who wanted to see bobbin lace being done and ask questions so that if she was interested enough she could actually get stuff and find a class while in Belgium. Great fun to see someone her age so fascinated by the whole thing. Unfortunately, I didn't get the Beds lace cap done that I had started. In fact, I ended up stealing bobbins off of it and my Honiton piece, which is lesson 1 from the Thompson book, so that I could have enough bobbins to demonstrate with. But, many thanks for the suggestions on working it. Someone on this list a while ago said that Beds lace was an exercise in bobbin management. Whoever you were, you were right! I've got 120 pairs mounted, and I feel like I spend more time shuffling heaps of bobbins (strapped to flat pieces of wood, don't worry) than doing anything else. Regarding Honiton, I apologize, I don't remember who asked about getting all new toys for doing Honiton. Anyway, all of my pillows when I started playing with Honiton were about 26/66cm squares, and that just wasn't something I was interested in trying to deal with. So I cut out a circle of styropor* that's about 12-15/30-38cm across, cut two circles of fabric larger than the pillow, and pinned the circles to the pillow with them overlapping on the sides. My first project I don't remember what thread I used, but it was thicker than what Thompson recommends, so I had to reduce the number of pairs. Pain in the neck, that is! I have now gone and gotten some real Honiton thread from the Honiton Lace Shop, and am now using I think 170/2 for the same little flower. It's astounding how fine it is, and how darned easily it snaps. For bobbins, I've been using unspangled Midlands bobbins. I CAN NOT (and I have tried!) work with spangled bobbins, but unspangled Midlands let you pack a lot more bobbins onto a pillow than the Continentals. I have found, though, that the completely smooth Mids bobbins are hard to grab, both for picking up between the thumb and forefinger and for grasping between the fingers of my clawed hands for tensioning. It's much easier when they have a tiny bit of decoration on the spangle end. I haven't had any problems with them snagging on anything, although the only Honiton I've done is the flower one-and-a-half times, and the hanky corner 1/3 of the way. * Styropor is I think the name for what I'm using; it's sold here in Europe, or at least in France, in about 70cm x 140 cm sheets, and is a very
