Knitted Lace
Lace Types A HISTORICAL GUIDE TO EUROPEAN LACES

LACE KNITTING does not seem to have developed until the late 18th century, even though knitting itself is a craft that predates lace. It became extremely popular during the 19th century when items from small mats to large shawls were produced. During the second half of the century a cottage industry developed in the Shetland Isles using the fine wool from the local sheep to knit delicate shawls — the best were so fine that they could be pulled through a wedding ring.

Shetland knitting belt, also known as a whisk, 20th century. The belt was fastened around the knitter's waist and the end of one of the knitting needles was anchored in a hole. This way the knitter could work at a faster rate.

Estonia and the Orenburg district of Russia are other regions with a tradition of producing fine knitted lace shawls.

Small mats or doilies from the Azores similar to the one shown here are among the knitted items at the Victoria & Albert Museum, where they are dated to between 1875 and 1900. According to an 1893 article in Harper’s Bazaar, doilies like these were knitted on “five, very fine, slightly curved, barbed needles”.

Mat knitted with pita fibre from the century plant (Agave americana), probably from the Azores
Mat knitted with pita fibre from the century plant (Agave americana), probably from the Azores
Shetland knitting belt, also known as a whisk, 20th century. The belt was fastened around the knitter's waist and the end of one of the knitting needles was anchored in a hole. This way the knitter could work at a faster rate.