Irish Crochet Lace was inspired by the needlemade laces of Venice, gros point and plat point de Venise and in the early nineteenth century these needlemade laces were imitated with the crochet hook. By 1860, over 12,000 were employed in the industry in Cork. Clones was particularly noted for its very fine crochet lace and was given the accolade, Point d’Irlande on Continental markets. Irish Crochet Lace has been used by couturiers since the late nineteenth century, achieving a look as opulent and beautiful as needlelace. To-day Irish Crochet lace is enjoying a widespread revival and was one of the many Irish lace techniques that never entirely died out.

Go to the Gallery to see examples of Irish Crochet Lace.