When I took my first lace lessons back in 1988 (in Willesden Telephone Exchange - long story), I was fascinated with the thought of making miniature lace (long before Ros Snowdon's books came out) as my mum was starting out a dolls house.

When we got our lace pillows and bobbins, we also got a copy of Pam Nottingham's little paperback and in there were a number of smaller pieces.

I showed one to my teacher and said that I'd like to work towards that piece. Her response? Oh, you won't be able to do that for years.

After 2 months of making worm bandages (whole stitch, 1cm wide and 30 cm long) I came to the conclusion that she wasn't the teacher for me.

I joined my local group and whilst they didn't offer teaching, they were all very supporting in showing me tips and tricks and helping me if I got into difficulties.

With lockdown, access to face to face tutors has become very difficult, so this group and the meet ups via zoom are a godsend.

If any of you have a piece that you have seen and want to work towards it, then shout out and we can help you break down the patterns you might want to work in order to get there.

​And that piece that she said I wouldn't be able to do? Made it 4 months after I started.