Belgian+Lace

= Belgian Lace =   Belgian lace or Brussels lace originated in and around Brussels, Belgium in the 15th century. The term “brussels lace” is often mistakenly used to describe any lace from Brussels; however, the term directly refers to bobbin lace, a lace made in pieces. Brussels lace is also commonly confused with Brussels point, a needle lace. The lace itself is typically used as a pillow lace.

 The crafting of this lace distinguishes it from any other kinds of lace. Brussels lace is defined by its r éseau, or its background. The réseau of Brussels lace is hexagonal. Also, the tolié, or the pattern, is different than normal lace patterns. In Brussels lace, the toilé allows for shading due to the 2 types of material used. The lack of a cordonnet outlining pattern also makes the lace stand out. Open stitches edge the lace.

Brussels lace also has a very rich history. It has always been known for its beauty and delicacy, and those characters came through a very intricate creation process. The lace was made in a dark, wet room where only one ray of light was allowed. This process preserved the delicate nature of the lace. Due to this, the lace couldn’t be mass produced, and came at a very high price. In fact, a prohibition was placed on the import of this lace after many countries realized how much money was spent on it. France was one of the countries to prohibit it. This lace was very popular, however, so it was re released in France under the name Point d’Angleterre. Eventually, the prohibition was lifted in 1699, and the lace was produced until the French Revolution.  Today in Brussels, small shops produce handmade Belgian laces, but the production is getting smaller and smaller as the generations grow older.