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While netting has rather fallen out of favor of late years, the beautiful Guipure d'Art which consists of netted squares worked with various ornamental stitches is as much admired as ever. Although looks extremely difficult, it is really very easy of execution, and fully repays one for the trouble of working. The popular word "effective" so much in vogue now is very applicable to Guipure netting, drawn work, and Macramé lace, all of which are really very easy of execution, in spite of the elegant and complicated appearance of the work.

For this work a frame is necessary on which to stretch the netted foundation. This should be made of strong wire soldered together, and can be made by a tinsmith. It should be large enough to stretch the netting tightly. For insertion or edging, an oblong frame is used. The netting is generally done with linen thread, which must be of a size regulated by the foundation. A common darning or tapestry needle may be used for the lace stitches. Great accuracy is essential in this work, as a wrongly placed stitch would spoil the whole effect. It would be a good plan to practice the different stitches given on a square which can be kept for a sampler. 166