Lenka's Way of LaceOld Wise Trees in the United States of America
April 18, 2024
Yes, the Old Wise Trees grow in the United States of America as well!
I always thought so, even heard about them occasionally, and wondered whether they will ever allow to be seen. Finally it happened. Two trees arrived within the same week as a delightful proof. They are beautiful, each in its own distinctive way, and they aptly represent the eclectic nature of lacemaking craft in America.
One of the trees is not just old, it is ancient. It was made it in 2008, which means that the pattern must have come from my old Silver Pin Studio website. I remember offering a free pattern there with very basic instructions, leaving it up to lacemakers to figure out a lot of steps on their own. It was quite common in those times. Lacemaking was young and rather rare craft in North America. Lacemakers who were few and spread all over the vast continent had to be resourceful and self-sufficient. When I eventually met some of them I found them to be keen, dedicated and fun to work with. They were open to learning any technique, from traditional to modern, in any material, from fine threads to wire. Without ingrained traditional styles, it was possible to explore and expand handmade lace together toward new horizons.
With the same enthusiasm, the American lacemakers embraced internet and started to share resources online. Interestingly, some lacemakers, especially in California, were employed in computer industry and were quite proud about the connection between binary code in software and bobbin lace. Looking back, I don’t think any of us imagined how much and how fast will internet help with preserving the fine craft of lace by making the sources readily accessible for many lacemakers around the world.
And I did not know then that Old Wise Tree project will one day have its own online gallery!
That ancient wise tree I am talking about was made by Lorraine Weiss of Albany, New York. And it is very well done.
In pristine white thread standing out against deep blue background, the tree looks immaculate. White was the colour of choice for most handmade laces throughout the history. As the colour symbolizes innocence and purity, it was considered auspicious for celebrating special occasions in women’s life. The delicate white lace was cherished and treasured as part of cultural and familial heritage.
Lorraine made the Old Wise Tree for her niece, whose Bat Mitzvah torah portion was on the Tree of Life. And it fulfilled the purpose beautifully – the tree stands tall and strong, its widely spread roots foretelling long, fruitful life. With precise torchon ground of the crown and neatness of braided branches and trunk the tree looks composed and serene. Blues in the background add not only visual, but also spiritual depth to the whole picture, elevating this Old Wise Tree to a very special family heirloom. Wonderful work, Lorraine!
The Old Wise Tree from Juli Maret of St. Louis, Missouri, is equally beautiful yet totally different.
Juli’s choice of cotton thread in six contrasting colours works really well. Unexpected vivid reds give the tree intensity, character and unapologetic originality. They infuse the crown with joie de vivre, and continue to flow through the branches, trunk and roots like blood running in the veins of this flourishing tree. The tightly braided branches and trunk look so realistic, one almost forgets that they are made from soft fibres. Only the gnarly trunk and roots communicate the wisdom collected through many seasons, and readiness to face more with strength and passion.
Expressive background hand painted in acrylics on canvas greatly contributes to the picture’s originality. While it suggests all earthly elements needed for the physical growth, it allows the tree to live in its own space, exalted and jubilant.
Great interpretation of the Old Wise Tree theme. Congratulation, Juli!
Looking at these trees, and all other in the Old Wise Tree Gallery, I am overwhelmed by a humble joy from realization that a very simple pattern from my lace workshop has inspired so much creativity and beauty. I feel like being in nature and observing living trees where I often wonder if trees know how magnificent they are. They never respond, they just are. And I always tell them: “Yes, you are very beautiful and I am happy to share the life on Earth with you!”
Old Wise Tree Gallery is always open and welcomes all visitors!
The Free Old Wise Tree Pattern and Tutorial was published on this website on January 16th, 2021.
With thirty two trees from eight countries submitted to the online exhibition, together we are slowly growing an Old Wise Grove. Big thanks and a round of applause to all participating lacemakers!
Are there more lace trees growing in the world?
Please consider reaching out by sending a photo of your tree with following information to this email address:
Your Name + City / Country + Materials used + Pricking size (if different than the original 100%)
+ Optional: Notes (any specific information you would like to add)
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Disclaimer: By submitting the photo/s and requested information you agree that your work will be displayed in the Old Wise Tree Gallery hosted on this website.
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Happy lacemaking,
Lenka
Lenka's Way of Lace 
An auspicious time in the world for Old Wise Trees to make a comeback. What a beautiful story and the trees on that Old Wise Tree site are amazing
Thanks Lenka!
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