Lace format · Round lace
Doily Lace
Flat circular lace worked in rounds from the centre out, finished with a decorative outer edge.
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Category
- Lace
- Common fibres
- Crochet Thread, Mercerized Cotton
Definition
A doily is a format rather than a technique: any flat lace worked in rounds, usually in fine thread, sized from a coaster to a table centre.
Overview
Doily construction teaches increase mathematics better than almost anything else — the stitch count per round has to grow at the rate the circle's circumference grows, or the piece ruffles or cups.
The final round is where a doily earns its character: picots, scallops, ring edgings or blocked points.
Characteristics
- Worked in rounds from a centre ring
- Increases follow the circle's geometry
- Blocked and pinned flat to finish
Typical uses
- Table centres
- Coasters
- Framed lace
- Layered under vases
Questions
Why does my doily ruffle at the edge?
Too many increases for the round. Reduce the increase rate or move to a smaller hook for the outer rounds.
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