Lace

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For other uses, see Lace (disambiguation).

Valuable old lace, cut and framed for sale in Bruges, Belgium

Lace is a delicate fabric made of yarn or thread in an open weblike pattern,[1] made by

machine or by hand. Generally, lace is divided into two main categories, needlelace and
bobbin lace.[2]:122 There are other types of lace, such as knitted or crocheted lace. Other
laces such as these are considered as a category of their specific craft. Knitted lace,
therefore, is an example of knitting. This article considers both needle lace and bobbin
lace.
While some experts say[which?] both needle lace and bobbin lace began in Italy in the late
1500s,[2]:122 [3]:12 there is some question about the origins.
Originally linen, silk, gold, or silver threads were used. Now lace is often made
with cotton thread, although linen and silk threads are still available. Manufactured lace
may be made of synthetic fiber. A few modern artists make lace with a fine copper or
silver wire instead of thread.