Two Little Treasures from New Orleans

While browsing an antique shop in New Orleans, I purchased two lace bobbins with spangles, a lovely little connection to the world of handmade textiles.

Lace bobbins hold thread for making bobbin lace. The lacemaker crosses and twists the threads, working around pins placed in a pattern on a lace-making pillow. The bobbins serve as handles, allowing the threads to be guided without constantly touching them.

The decorative loops of beads attached to the ends are called spangles. They add weight to help maintain thread tension and bring a touch of color and personality to these practical tools. Spangled bobbins are particularly associated with England’s East Midlands lace-making tradition, while continental European bobbins are typically unspangled.

As a quilter, I appreciate the patience, precision, and creativity that go into working with thread. These two small finds make me wonder about the hands that once held them and the lace they may have helped create. They will be a wonderful addition to my collection, and I look forward to using them to make a beautiful piece of lace, adding my own stitches to their story. 🤎