Wordy Wednesdays

I spent some time going through one of my favorite second hand shops yesterday – which can be a dangerous pastime… especially if you’re trying to keep the clutter to a minimum!

I was surprised by how many pieces of older lace they had for sale.  I restrained myself from adding to my stash, but it got me thinking about how many hours had been put into the embroidered, crocheted or hand-knotted lace by women over the years.

So if you like to give second-hand lace a good home, but aren’t quite sure what to do with it – here are a few ideas…

Why not frame it as a piece of art?  I’ve got a doily that my great-grandmother crocheted, framed and hanging on my wall.  Just because something was originally meant to be placed on a table doesn’t mean you can’t display it differently.  This is a good idea especially for valuable pieces of handmade lace.

For lace that isn’t quite as precious, how about actually using it?  That way you get the enjoyment of wearing it or using it – and it doesn’t just sit in a box for the next twenty years!

If you really want to be brave, lace can be dyed, altered, painted or even… distressed.  Hey, as long as you’re using it and enjoying it

image: C Findlay-Harder