Thread Testing For Lace Making is about giving lacemakers the information they need to make confident choices. The appearance of lace changes with thread, scale, and lace type. By contributing thread, you are helping build a reference library grounded in actual materials and real practice.
Even a single thread contribution expands the reference library and helps future lacemakers compare threads that may otherwise disappear from use.
This project is only possible because of the generosity and knowledge of our amazing bobbin lace community.
What I Am Looking For
You are welcome to send either a labeled thread sample or a labeled spool/ball of thread. If sending a spool or ball, please include any required information that is not already shown on the manufacturer’s label.
Please include:
– Brand
– Thread size
– Fiber type
– The type of lace that you would use the thread (Torchon, Bucks, Flanders, Chantilly, etc.)
If you use the same thread for more than one type of lace, please write that as well.
Because this book is intended to be a reliable reference, I can only accept contributions with complete and accurate labeling.
Examples of thread documentation:
– DMC Retors d’Alsace 30, Cotton, Torchon. I bought this thread to use with a pattern from the Torchon Lacemaking book by Wade.
– Madeira tanne 50, Cotton, Bucks?
– Linen 40/3, Torchon
How Your Thread Will Be Used
Each thread contribution will be tested on a graduated grid chosen to match the type of lace you noted.
The tester grids are designed to work up quickly. This allows each thread to be tested efficiently and consistently without unnecessary use of material.
Not every thread may be shown in the first edition, but each contribution helps expand the reference library for future testing and publications.
What To Contribute
For consistency, I’m asking for a standard amount of thread. Although some tester grids require less, using one standard amount makes it easy to prepare samples and ensures there is enough thread to complete one tester grid pattern.
These measurements are roughly the same. Please use the one that is most familiar to you.
A minimum of:
– 30 feet
– 10 yards
– 9 meters
You are also welcome to contribute a labeled spool or ball of thread, instead of preparing a sample. Additional thread allows the same thread to be tested across multiple lace types and graduated grid ranges, further expanding the reference library.
White thread is preferred for most lace types (black for Chantilly), but any color is welcome.
Preparing Your Thread
If you are sending a labeled spool or ball of thread, there is no need to rewind it. Simply include the required thread information, if it is not already on the manufacturer’s label.
If you are sending a thread sample, please wind it onto a cardstock or cardboard thread holder. Store-bought or handmade thread holders are both welcome.
Number the sample thread holder and provide documentation details in a letter.
Please include your contact information, along with any additional details you’d like to share about the thread and how you use it.
Be sure each contribution is clearly labeled and includes the required information.
When to Send Thread
You are welcome to send threads throughout the project. Contributions received earlier are more likely to be included in the first edition of the book.
Where to Send Your Thread
Cajah Reed
8275 E 11th Ave #200961
Denver, CO 80220
A Note of Thanks
Every lacemaker who contributes thread will be acknowledged by name in Thread Testing for Lace Making. Your contribution directly supports this project, and it is important to me to recognize that.
Thank you for being part of this work.
Thread Holder Instructions:
Making a Cardstock Thread Holder
Step 1 – Use a piece of cardstock that is thicker than regular printer paper.
The example is 1 inch (2.5 cm) by 1.5 inches (4 cm). This works for thinner thread, but a thicker thread may need a larger rectangle. Make the thread holder the size you feel is right for the thread you are donating.
Step 2 – Cut a small slit on opposite sides of the cardstock.
Step 3 – When winding thread, place the beginning of your thread in one slit and then end in the other.
Making a Cardboard Thread Holder
Step 1 – Save a toilet paper or paper towel tube.
Step 2 – Cut the tube open.
Step 3 – Cut a section off the end of the flattened tube.
Step 4 – Make the thread holder the size you feel is right for the thread you are donating. I used 1 inch (2.5 cm) by 1.5 inches (4 cm) for thin thread.
Step 5 – Cut a small slit on opposite sides of the cardstock.
Step 6 – When winding thread, place the beginning of your thread in one slit and then end in the other.