Half Stitch.
Mark the bobbins 1, 2, 3, 4, as for whole stitch. Pass No. 3 between Nos. 1 and 2, pass No. 1 over No. 3, pass No. 2 over No. 4, leaving No. 4 alone, and continue with the next bobbins as in learning whole stitch. It will be observed that half stitch is worked like whole stitch except the last movement of passing No. 4 between Nos. 3 and 1; to this omission the stitch owes its name. Half stitch is used largely for the lighter parts of Honiton lace, and is shown mixed in the rose, page [43].
Devonshire Turn or Wheel
To wind the threads on the bobbins a turn or wheel is used. No. 10 shows a Devonshire turn. The thread or cotton is always wound from right to left, and a loop is made to prevent the bobbin from unwinding. On gentle pressure the thread unwinds, but will hang in place perfectly if the loop is made properly. All the bobbins should be kept at the same length from the pillow to which they are attached.
No. 10.—Devonshire Turn.
Honiton Lace Stitch.
Honiton lace thread, No. 8 or No. 12 (No. 8 for beginners), nine pairs of bobbins, one pair bobbins of Mecklenburg thread No. 12, three pairs of leaders, one Mecklenburg thread bobbin next each of the side leaders. Work the third pair of leaders across, twist three times plain stitch (the plain stitch is worked with the leaders at each side left and right), twist three times, insert pin, work back, twist three times, one plain stitch, twist three times, pin.
This stitch is used for most of the Honiton patterns, and the learner will observe that it is the same as braid work, p. 12, only the leaders twist three times instead of twice. No notice is taken of the Mecklenburg thread bobbins: the leaders work over and under these as with the ordinary bobbins.