How to do Irish Crochet

Unlike most forms of crochet, worked in either rounds or rows, traditional Irish crochet (sometimes just called Irish Lace) is made up of motifs that are joined with mesh stitches, forming lace. Irish crochet lace was developed in Ireland in the mid-1800s during the potato famine. The income that their sales provided was a lifeline for many families at this time. Crocheting was a simpler way to make lace using tiny hooks and fine yarns and the techniques were easy to learn.

As its popularity grew, key motif patterns became closely guarded secrets and were only shared by demonstration. Irish crochet still continues today, although beginners tend to use 4ply or DK yarn to start with. While some crocheters seek to preserve this technique, others take alternative routes, making items purely from motifs, or hooking the mesh background first and attaching the motifs with appliqué for speedier, freeform-style makes.

The motifs usually take the form of solid ribbons, leaves, shamrocks and flowers. The Irish rose is the most recognisable design. Some motifs were made around a cord for a bulkier look. Traditionally, the lace was worked in one colour using three different weights of fine thread in either cotton, linen or silk. The finer the threads used, the more delicate the lace. Thicker threads would be used for the motifs and the finest threads would be used to form the mesh. The mesh could be embellished with picots or tiny Clones knots.

Although the lace looks complex, as it’s just made up of motifs and mesh, it’s not too difficult to master. Originally, this form of lace was used to make collars, trims and gowns. Due to its more freeform construction, Irish crochet can in fact be used to almost make anything, from bags and jewellery to tops, dresses and shawls. It’s a really great way of working to make unique designs. We'll show you the basics of how to Irish crochet, and keep reading below to see some more examples or Irish Crochet and some fantastic Irish crochet patterns.