Carrickmacross lace is an applique/cutwork type of lace worked over machine netting. The fabric used is a very fine almost see through cambric or muslin which is embroidered to netting and cut away in palces to form a shadow effect. This is very delicate lace and does not withstand washing very well. The cutwork is sometimes combined with filling stitches to give an even greater detail. Sometimes confused with Limerick which does not use the cutwork.

Associated with the town of Carrickmacross in Co Monaghan, this style of lace owes its existence to Mrs Grey Porter, a local rector's wife, who brought some appliqué lace home from her honeymoon in Italy. Later, looking for ways to provide work for women from the impoverished local population she established lace-making classes, initially copying the designs of the Italian pieces. Other wealthy individuals in the area followed suit and during the famine these provided a very much needed source of income in the area. The local lace evolved from the Italian style and became very distinctive. The laces is made by first made by attaching fine muslin to a net base, with the main part of design outlined in embroidery on both the muslin and net. The surplus muslin is then cut away, leaving the pattern on the net base. While many other styles of lace died out in the early 20th century, Carrickmacross lace remained strong, primarily thanks to the St Louis Convent in the town whose pupils continue to be taught the craft right to the present time. Lace makers in the area now produce lace mainly by commission and often for fashion designers. Princess Diana's wedding dress had sleeves decorated with Carrickmacross lace.

Carrickmacross Links

A History of Carrickmacross 

Carrickmacross Lace Fan Patternsby Ann Margaret Keller.
Carrickmacross Lace Gallery
Liesa's Carrickmacross Page

Sources

Tim Parker-cotton net
Carrickmacross Supplies & Patterns from Snowgoose.