It was in the famine period that the Rector of Headford, Co. Galway, brought about a revival of the pillow lace, which was known to a few women in the county—taught, according to the tradition, by a soldier from foreign parts at some unknown date. This work is now reviving, thanks to the energetic care of Mrs. Dawson.
Mr. A. S. Cole gives the following classification of Irish laces:—
There are seven sorts of Irish lace.
1. Flat needle-point lace.
2. Raised needle-point lace.
3. Embroidery on net, either darning or chain-stitch.
4. Cut cambric or linen work in the style of guipure or appliqué lace.
5. Drawn thread-work in the style of Reticella, and Italian cut points.
6. Pillow lace in imitation of Devon lace.