Broomstick Crochet

I had never heard of Broomstick Crochet before, until Sylvie described it to me. I like to learn new skills/techniques so I googled Broomstick Crochet and found this video tutorial, demonstrating the technique. Following the tutorial I produced a few samples. I found the technique easy, it gives an openwork lace effect. At one time, as the name implies, people used a broomstick to hold the loops, but an oversized knitting needle will do.

"The origins of Broomstick Crochet, which is also called Peacock Stitch or Witchcraft Lace are obscure. There are no references or examples of it in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London or in the American Museum in Bath. Americans claim broomstick crochet as their own because there is evidence that the early settlers used it as a quick way to make blankets. In America, Canada and Australia, it is still practiced as a traditional craft and is demonstrated in rural life museums. In America it is sometimes called "jiffy lace." In Sweden, it is called "Lattice Loop." It probably originated in Europe, born out of necessity and used up odds and ends of yarn. Created in this way, it may not have been treasured as heirlooms and therefore the lack of evidence means that the history is mostly conjecture instead of fact."

From: Muriel Kent, "Exciting Crochet", David & Charles Publ., Devon, 1987

Information on the pink beach dress pattern can be found on Farmhouse Yarns