One of my favorite parts of lace making is the design process. Figuring out how different elements work together, testing stitches, and refining ideas before committing to the final version is so exciting for me. My latest experiment is a bobbin lace sampler that will eventually be made with an unconventional material—hand-spun produce bag thread.

Before using that finite material (I have to cut up and spin produce bags), I wanted to ensure the design works, so I tested it using my go-to material, silk thread. This first version revealed both promising elements and areas that need refinement before I move forward.

Triangles and Spiders: The Inspiration Behind the Design

I regularly flip through my collection of bobbin lace books for inspiration, and when I came across a design that featured triangles, it caught my attention. I realized that despite my love for geometric lace, I had never created a pattern centered around triangles. That discovery led me to develop a four-triangle composition, with a diamond of five spiders in the center to add interest.

I regularly use spiders in my designs because I love how they look, but this time I wanted to try something different. The diamond configuration was a nod to my recently completed micro lace pieces, Ethereal and Gossamer, which also featured multiple spiders arranged in a similar way.

However, after completing the sampler, I realized the spiders muddled the design. The central spider was visible, but the others seemed to disappear into the other lace stitches.

Adapting New Stitches and Managing Tension

Since this was my first attempt at the pattern, I also decided to experiment with stitches I had never used before. Figuring out the correct movements for these stitches was the first challenge, and once I had them down, I had to focus on keeping the tension even.

When I removed the finished piece from the lace pillow, I noticed areas where the tension wasn’t quite right, leaving loose spots. That’s something I’ll need to focus on in the next sampler.

Gimp or No Gimp? The Next Big Decision

One of the biggest takeaways from this test piece was that the design needs more definition. The four triangles don’t stand out as much as they should, and I suspect the lace would benefit from a gimp (a heavier thread) outlining each triangle.

The challenge? Since my final version will be made from hand-spun produce bag thread, I’ll need to figure out how to create a gimp from the same material. One possibility is spinning a thicker version of the thread by layering multiple strips of produce bags. Before I go that far, I’ll test the gimp concept in my next silk thread sampler to see if it actually improves the design.

Looking Ahead: Adjustments for the Next Sampler

This first sampler provided valuable insights, and I now have a clearer idea of what needs to be adjusted before moving on to the unconventional material:

– Refining the center spider design – The current version looks too busy, and I need to experiment with simplifying or repositioning the spiders.
– Focusing on tensioning the new stitches – Uneven tension in a few areas needs to be addressed in the next sample.
– Testing a gimp outline – Adding a heavier thread to define the triangles could dramatically improve the design’s clarity.

I still don’t know how hand-spun produce bag thread will behave in bobbin lace—it may work beautifully, or it may not work at all. That’s what makes experimental lace exciting! For now, I’ll continue refining the pattern with silk thread, and once it’s solid, I’ll take the leap into working with my newest unconventional material.

Want to follow along with my lace experiments? Be sure to check out my Instagram (@BobbinLaceNet) and TikTok (@CajahYupMe) for process videos and behind-the-scenes updates!