Replies

1. 
   lin327 | Jun 19, 2002 04:23pm | #1

   Sounds like one for the pros.  Since professional lace makers are few and far between, reproduction victorian books like"Victorian encyclopedia of needlework" by Caulfeild and Saward  (1882) has several articles on repairing and darning ripped lace.  Unfortunately it's written in florid Victorian english, so it takes a couple readings to figure out what they're saying.  Also "The complete Encyclopedia of Needlework" by Therese de Dillmont (1884) has advice on repairing laces.  Use size 90 cotton thread by madiera.  I get mine from bobbin lace suppliers.  If the Tulle is fine linen then finding the thread might be harder, but once again Bobbin lace suppliers might help.  The only place I've found that sells thread finer than 90 is in england and  between shipping and all it's prohibitively expensive.  I hope that provides a bit of help.

2. 
   sanderson | Jun 20, 2002 07:18am | #2

   For an emergency fix I'd go for the invisible thread and a really fine needle.  Depending on how much it will show I'd suggest you try to sort of "weave" the torn edges together...almost like darning knitted elbows if you've ever been there.  The invisible thread that I've gotten is very fine and shouldn't ad too much weight or be especially visible.  For an heirloom you will probably want to get it fixed right but that may have to come later.   Good luck and congratulation on the upcoming nuptials.