LACEMAKERS

Bobbin lacemaking was a cottage industry and was probably introduced to England in the 16th century by Flemish and Huguenot refugees. A form of lace was made in England before this, but this was a type of embroidery and not the lace we recognise today. The lacemaking refugees found their way to Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, settling in Newport Pagnell, Olney and Buckingham. Another group went to Devonshire, establishing a lace industry around Honiton. They brought with them the tools of their trade and their expertise, and bobbin lacemaking soon became well established in these areas.

Bobbin lace was made on a