Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

Hairpin Lace Tools

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A recent discussion on another site got me to thinking how crochet tools have changed over time.  Hooks, themselves, have changed very little.  You either have a ‘traditional’ hook or an in-line hook with handle variations.  But, other crochet tools have evolved more, taking advantage of advances in engineering and materials.

I’ve never actually even attempted, much less mastered, hairpin lace although I own three different hairpin lace tools.  I actually purchased this Hair Pin lace Tool made by Clover (notice the unopened package ;-0):

hairpin-lace-1-0509

Here are two others you can find at http://www.mielkesfarm.com/crocheting_tools.htm

hairpin-lace-2-0509

hairpin-lace-3

The first of these is a simple tool, pretty much unchanged over time.  The blue one is specifically for making flowers, but can also be used for more traditional hairpin projects.

There are several other hairpin lace loom designs I’ve seen.  One is a big U-shaped metal tube.  Despite the variation in designs of the looms, they all create the same lovely hairpin lace.  Here’s an example so you can see what it’s supposed to look like:

hairpin-lace-stole-0509

http://flirtationsknitwear.blogspot.com/2008/11/allure-of-hairpin-lace.html

If you don’t have a hairpin lace loom or access to a store to buy one, see if you can make your own using these instructions:

hairpin-lace-4-0509

http://www.ehow.com/how_4468904_make-hairpin-lace-loom.html

 

BROOMSTICKS AND HAIRPINS?

DORIS CHAN SCORES AGAIN!

Comments

  1. Ha Ha I also have a couple of these that I bought but have never used. The directions were too vague but the other day I was watching TV and since everything is going Digital I bought converter box and now I get a channel called CREATE and one of the shows is Knit and Crochet Today they explain so well so I’ll have to try it now. But I am happy to be able to tell Dear Hubby that I’m not the only one who buys tools that never get used. 🙂

  2. Of all the hairpin lace tools I bought and tried, and failed, the only one I was able to work, and actually enjoy working with is my Jenkins Hairpin Lace. A bit spendy, for some, but for some reason everything seems better, and one frame that I actually use and enjoy. I’ve heard others talk, and of all the ones who tried various Hairpin lace frames, they all failed, until they tried Jenkins. Also, Stitch Diva has a wonderful tutorial on Hairpin lace. I do not work for any of these compaines, I just know what I like.

    The Clover HP Lace frame is a bit awkard to use, the way they have the big end things. I tried Bates to no sucess.

    One can make flowers on a regular hairpin lace frame, you can use two prongs, or more. For the Jenkins frame, I bought an extra prong, not for flowers, but for center stitch.

  3. I just want to buy an adjustable lace loom and a book to learn how to do it. I’m getting a thousand places with no information. Just buy now. I need a telephone number to talk to someone. I would like to purchase these items. It’s too difficult to find.

    Lolly Kruczek

  4. Lolly,
    I think you can get some answers from a weaving shop rather than a yarn shop. Here is my favorite one:
    Weaving Department (ask for Nancy and tell her Joni from Crochet Club recommended you call her)
    180 Dunn Rd Ste 3 · Florissant
    (314) 921-7800
    and another one – I know no one personally there.
    Hillcreek Yarns 7001 S Hill Creek Rd, Columbia · (573) 874-2233
    jd

  5. Ok speak my mind. I know how to do the hairpin lace with two side bars but I was looking for a book of instructions for the Clover 3 pin loom. Would like patterns for 3 pin loom. If there is a book that I can purchase. I would like a book of instructions if at all possible. Could someone help me get the book for this 3 prong loom?

  6. Cassandra,
    I’m not familiar with a way to do hairpin lace with a 3 pin loom. Maybe some reader can help you. Otherwise, it might help to contact Clover to see if they can help. Good luck!
    jd

Have you read?

Vintage Crochet Baby Dress Pattern Review

There is something especially charming about a vintage baby dress pattern, and this Crocheted Cutie Dress #3112 has all the details that make older crochet designs so appealing.

The dress features a neatly shaped bodice, short sleeves, contrast stripes and a full lace skirt with a scalloped finish. It has that classic heirloom look without feeling overly formal, which makes it suitable for birthdays, family photos, baby showers or simply as a special handmade outfit.

One of the nicest things about this design is the balance between the structured upper section and the much softer, more decorative skirt. The bodice is worked in a simple repeating texture, while the skirt opens into a detailed lace pattern that gives the dress plenty of movement and fullness. The white trim around the neckline, sleeves and hem also helps define the shape beautifully.

The pattern includes instructions for sizes 1 and 2, with the second size shown in parentheses throughout. As with many vintage patterns, the sizing does not line up neatly with modern age labels, so it is important to check the gauge and finished proportions rather than relying on the size number alone.

This would be best suited to an intermediate crocheter, or a confident beginner who is comfortable reading traditional pattern instructions. The design uses chain stitches, single crochet, double crochet, treble crochet, colour changes, shaping, repeated lace sections and separate pieces that are sewn together during finishing.

The sleeves and collar are made separately and attached to the completed bodice. The back is finished with three buttons, giving the dress a practical opening while keeping the front clean and decorative.

The original version uses pink and white mercerized crochet cotton, but the design works beautifully in more modern combinations too. Sage and cream give it a soft botanical feel, lemon and white make it fresh and summery, while orange and ivory create a much warmer retro look.

Because the pattern was originally written for vintage crochet cotton and a steel hook, I would strongly recommend making a gauge swatch before beginning. Modern threads and hook-sizing systems can vary, and the bodice needs to fit correctly before the lace skirt is added.

The professionally reformatted PDF is much easier to follow than an unedited scan. It keeps the original stitch counts and construction while improving spacing and readability. It also includes a modern mockup and the original vintage reference image, which is helpful when visualising the finished shape.

Overall, this is a lovely pattern for anyone who enjoys making vintage-inspired baby clothes. The lace skirt is the real highlight, but the striped bodice and matching collar give the finished dress a polished, complete look.