How to Crochet: Bruges Lace

By Candace – 13 Comments

Bruges lace is a technique that originated in Belgium that uses structure that consists of a ribbon/tape and chains on either side of the tape that create the lacy effect. This method of creating lace is actually quite simple, but can yield gorgeous results both alone and when mixed with other crochet techniques.

Here you can see a basic Bruges lace tape. If you look at it carefully, you can see that in its most basic form, it is a thin crocheted strip with extra long turning chains.



The real beauty of Bruges lace comes out when you add shaping to it. To make the lace turn and curve, you vary the stitch height in the ribbon. In this example I used sc to shape the piece. The shorter stitches (sc) are worked on the inside of the curve and the taller stitches (dc) are worked on the outside.

This technique is deceptively simple and is great for those who like to work freehand because you can easily adjust your shaping as you go. For those who would rather plan out their work, Bruges lace can also easily be done symmetrically.

For a sample of a Burges lace pattern, feel free to try the Bruges Trim Pouch Crochet Pattern.

If you need any help with the technique, feel free to leave a comment.

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13 Comments

  1. Erin says:

    Does anyone have ideas on ways to use bruges lace? I can see it as a trim on embroidered tea/dish towels.

    • Rachel says:

      Hi Erin, it does make a nice trim! We’re posting a pattern tomorrow that uses the burges lace, so can have an example of a project that uses it 🙂

  2. shelby says:

    The only thing I’ve thought of (I’ve been thinking for about 10 seconds) is a piece of jewelry. This would look pretty as a bracelet or a necklace!

  3. Karen says:

    I have used bulky yarn or worsted weight doubled to make a scarf.

  4. Bindhurani says:

    I have seen a scarf in one magazine before. I think, it was interweave crochet. Like sshelby said it can make a piece of jewelry too. Stitch few beads on it…

  5. Ika Musume says:

    Tutorial please?

  6. Jana says:

    Agree with tutorial. How do you make it?!

  7. Sarah says:

    A tutorial would be so nice! I love this lace and it looks quick and easy to do up. Something you can take with you in your purse….Thanks for posting this lovely lace.
    Sarah

  8. Sharron says:

    I make crocheted purses. I have found that the shoulder strap handle stretches. I am going to try this bruges stitches to make straps, sure looks like it would work

  9. Cate says:

    I’d put it on the top and bottom of a lampshade with some beads. Cool 🙂

  10. SUE says:

    I am going to send this to my mum as she does freeform crochet and I think she would love this

  11. I’ve seen dresses, coats, sweaters, skirts out of Bruges lace. The magazine Duplet features these a lot.

  12. Cyndi says:

    This is basically crocheted tape of (at least 4 up to ?) double crochets with chain loops connecting each row. It gets really interesting when you begin to connect the chains of one row with the chains of another (or multiple rows to create a circular effect). You’re only limited by your imagination with Bruges lace.

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