Nancy, I agree that it is always good to work without a crutch, and some laces simply don't need such a device, but when one is stretching one's ability, sometimes to the limit, a voodoo pillow might also add magic to the effort. Some Val, certainly, I don't know about Mechlin, but Binche, with its quirky changes is a definite. If one were making it as a job, with repeats more than the 4 found in a handkerchief edging, eventually there would be no need for a voodoo pillow, but since we're not doing this to make money, I'll take the crutch. And sometimes, if the diagram doesn't work, just doing the pricking can be the answer. But for that one must be acquainted with all the unwritten rules about how this lace is made. lrb
Nancy wrote: I agree with Holly Van Sciver that the ultimate goal is to be able to look at the lace and see what to do next. I'm getting better at doing that with Bucks but I find that old-style Binche/Val/Mechlin is still really difficult to do without such a pillow. However, the main thing I wanted to add is that I like calling it a voodoo board--you stick pins in it, huh? get it? oh well, _I_ think it's funny... - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
