LACE FABRICS

Lace is a patterned fabric produced with machines and/or some intricate handwork by looping, braiding or twisting a thread. Often woven from cotton, silk or rayon it has a distinct embroidered pattern. The lace fabric has an open weave with visible space in between the weaves. Lace making came into existence around the late 15th century. Back then, threads used for making lace were made of linen, silk, gold, or silver. Initial period of  17th century saw the lace fabric turned luxurious and drove the European economy really well. Both men and women started wearing it at that time.

It is often considered as a form of embroidery, but the key distinguishing factor is that the latter is a form of ornamentation done on a completed fabric whereas the former is a complete fabric in itself. Although, there are laces like Filet and Limerick which are popularly used as a form of embroidery, stitched over a fabric. The Lace fabric is extensively used in home decor products and in the clothing industry. The mesh like appearance gives a classy and delicate touch to a fabric. Narrow ones are used as trims, while broader ones are used as decorative on curtains, table cloths, and outfits.

Outfits  should be dry-cleaned. Also, to prevent the fabric from yellowing it should be stored between a layer of blue colored tissue papers.