Exploring the Beauty of Leavers Lace and Cluny Lace’s Legacy

For my next project, I was on the hunt for some lace inserts and remembered seeing something about the oldest lace-making factory in the UK, Cluny Lace. This factory is renowned for producing Leavers Lace, a machine-made lace that closely replicates the beauty of hand-made lace. It stands out because of its superior appearance, handle, and drape compared to other machine-made laces. When I first discovered the intricacy of this lace, I was captivated. The history, craftsmanship, and the beauty of the finished product are truly something special, and I couldn’t help but be inspired for my own projects.

I recently watched a deeply moving video about Cluny Lace, and I feel compelled to share it with all of you. The video, produced by WSJ Style, gives an intimate glimpse into one of the last remaining factories still producing Leavers Lace—a craft that’s sadly fading from existence. If you’re a fan of intricate craftsmanship, you won’t want to miss it.

Cluny Lace mainly uses Egyptian cotton and French nylon for their exquisite lace creations, and it’s fascinating to see just how intricate and beautiful Leavers Lace is. The machines themselves are a marvel, and it can take up to a month to thread one for a specific pattern. Watching the process brought tears to my eyes—it’s such a rare and precious art form. As I watched, I could see the pride and emotion in the remaining workers who still operate these machines, some of which date back to the early 1900s. The last machine was made in 1960, and since then, production has been slowed by the growing scarcity of skilled workers and the decline in demand for Leavers Lace.

It’s heartbreaking to realize that Cluny Lace, despite its long and storied history, is ceasing production due to these challenges. The company has been a key player in creating lace for luxury designers like Burberry, Dior, and many more. But as Leavers Lace becomes rarer, its price also rises. It may be expensive, but this is a direct reflection of the time, skill, and painstaking craftsmanship involved in every piece of lace.

If you’re curious about how this magnificent lace is made and the history behind it, I highly recommend watching the full video. You can see and hear the emotions of the workers, and you’ll truly appreciate why Leavers Lace is such an extraordinary fabric. You can watch it here: How This 140-Year-Old Lace Factory Created Leavers Lace for Dior, Burberry, and More | WSJ Coveted.

I’d also like to mention that the Cluny Lace Company is a long-established, independent manufacturer based in the UK, specifically on the border of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. They’ve been in business for over 140 years, and their catalogue includes over 365 patterns for haute couture, prêt-à-porter, household textiles, and even ecclesiastical laces. The family behind it, the Mason family, has been in the textile business since the 1730s. It’s a rich history that has helped preserve this invaluable craft, but now, sadly, it’s at risk of being lost.

Thank you to WSJ Style for producing such a moving and informative video. You can explore more of their work and content on fashion, entertainment, and culture here.

You can learn more about Cluny Lace and their incredible craftsmanship on their official website: Cluny Lace, or follow them on Facebook.