Crochet technique
Hairpin Lace
Hairpin lace is a crochet technique that makes strips of lace on a U-shaped loom with two parallel prongs. Yarn wraps around the prongs while a crochet hook works a single crochet spine down the centre. Finished strips are joined by interlocking or crocheting the side loops together into shawls or scarves.
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How to get started with hairpin lace
- Set the loom prongs to the desired strip width, for example 5 cm.
- Tie a slip knot and centre it between the prongs.
- Wrap the yarn around the right prong by turning the loom 180°.
- Insert the hook under the front strand of the left loop, yo and pull through, then yo and complete an sc.
- Pass the hook through the prongs and turn the loom again.
- Repeat until the strip has the required number of loops on each side.
- Join strips by pulling loops through each other or with sc and ch.
How do you make hairpin lace?
Hairpin lace is made by wrapping yarn around a two-pronged loom and securing each wrap with a single crochet at the centre, forming a strip with loops on both sides.
Count loops on one side and use a marker every 25 loops to keep strips equal.
What is a hairpin lace loom?
A hairpin lace loom is a frame with two adjustable rods held by top and bottom bars. The distance between the rods sets the strip width.
Historically, real hairpins were used for very narrow strips.
How do you join hairpin lace strips?
Hairpin lace strips are joined by using a hook to pull loops from alternating strips through one another in a braided chain, securing the last loop with a stitch.
Crocheted joins using single crochet and chain spaces produce a more stable edge.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a special tool for hairpin lace?
Yes, a hairpin lace loom, though a large U-shaped frame can substitute.
What yarn works for hairpin lace?
Smooth yarns from fingering to DK weight.
Is hairpin lace good for shawls?
Yes, it is one of the most common uses.