The textile trade proved to be very profitable and by the 13th-century, Bruges became the epicenter of Europe’s textile trade. The large quantities of various fabrics meant that Bruges developed a rich fashion industry, which paved the way for the development of its unique lace industry.
Bruges Lace
The great fondness of the Flemish residents of Bruges for impressive, quality clothing, led to the development of over 1,500 kinds of lace, woven from silver, gold and silk. Some claim that the Flanders’ unique weaving method, using small looms, was not developed in the region, and in fact originated in ancient Rome. Since those times, Belgium’s provinces developed many techniques for weaving lace, earning Belgium the nickname “The Home of Lace”.
These days, there are two main lace weaving techniques that are practiced in Belgium – the Bobbin Method, also known as the “Brussels Method” (since it is mainly sold in Brussels), and the Bruges Method that uses a loom. The people of Bruges are experts in producing lace so delicate that it is not meant for mass production due to the long and arduous process of weaving it.
Traditional Lace Weaving
All throughout Bruges you can find little shops selling intricate lace items. The shops are usually run by 50-90 year old women, who continue to weave lace by the traditional bobbin method. These artisans preserve the centuries-old tradition and produce quality lace item of various fabrics, colors and patterns. Belgium’s entire lace weaving industry is comprised of about 1,000 weavers that produce everything manually, without any motorized machines or other technological aids. The country doesn’t even have a single lace factory because it honors the ancient tradition of weaving and wishes to keep it alive.
How is Lace Woven?
Quite often, the basis for lace weaving is a piece of paper with a printed version of the pattern the weaver wishes to create. In this weaving method, the weaver uses 22 needles (called “Bobbins”), two of which are called “Conductors”. The more complicated the pattern, the more bobbins will be needed. Some pieces are so intricate that they require the use of over 200 bobbins.
Exploring the Fascinating History of the Flying Ship
The USS Plainview was an American ship that could fly. Literally. But what happened to it?
The Story of the Woman Behind Botticelli's Venus Painting
This article answers the age-old question: Who is the woman in Botticelli's painting The Birth of Venus?
The Fascinating Lives of Medieval Jesters
This video will take you on a journey through the Middle Ages and the important but highly underplayed role of the Jesters
The Real Reason Why the Mona Lisa is SO Famous
Why is the Mona Lisa the most famous painting in the world? What makes it special? Watch to find out the true story behind Da Vinci's masterpiece
Watch a Talented Young Dancer Turn the World Upside Down!
Veronika Khistova is only 14 in this video, but she makes everyone laugh with her upside-down dancer routine!
A Fascinating History of the New Year’s Eve
Did you know that New Year's hasn’t always been celebrated on January 1?
Shocking Facts About New York’s Flatiron Building
New York City's Flatiron building is one of the world’s most iconic structures. However, it faces an uncertain future.
Welcome to One of the Most Beautiful French Cities...
Prepare to immerse yourself in all that Montpellier has to offer - discover what sights are truly worth seeing and experiences worth having.
How I'd Love to Visit the Remarkable Mount Fuji...
Get to know the fantastic visuals and the rich history of this astounding mountain.
17 of the World's Most Delightful Roads
If you love driving, you probably have your favorite road or roads, but these 17 spectacular roads will definitely trump your personal favorites. Check them out!
Britain Has Many Destinations That Prove its Sheer Beauty
There's a lot more to the United Kingdom than just London, as these amazing destinations will prove to you. Take a look at 14 traveler hotspots in the UK.
Winter Hikers, Gather Round for the Best Tip of the Season
Here's how advanced snow hikers layer clothing in the winter.
Las Vegas Isn't Just About Gambling as These Places Prove
Planning a visit to Las Vegas? If so, you must really visit these stunning places.
Indonesia is an Island Paradise With Many Hidden Charms
Explore the culture and natural beauty of Indonesia with this immersive travel guide.
Norway: Where Living is a Unique Adventure (13 Pics)
You may have seen Norway’s beauty, but today we will introduce you to the how weirdly wonderful life in the Nordic country is.
Take a Walk Along the Most Amazing Cliff Paths in the World
Come with us on a walk through some of the world's most spectacular cliff paths!
10 Terrific Attractions in the City of Gdańsk, Poland
I. Discovering what Gdansk has to offer will undoubtedly convince you not to overlook it when planning your trip to Poland or Europe.
8 Gorgeous Places Just Outside Rome You Should See...
You shouldn't limit yourself to the regular tourist spots of Rome. Here are 8 destinations close to Rome you'll love to visit.
What's the Dirtiest Place on the Plane?
If you were asked what the dirtiest place on the plane was, what would you answer? The next study is going to surprise you and change your mind about dirty places.
10 Beautiful Places in Austria You Must Visit!
We invite you to join a special journey in the country, looking at 10 different sites that are simply a must.
7 Gorgeous Dutch Parks We Recommend You Visit!
we have compiled a list of the top 7 national parks in Holland that should not be missed!
It's Hard to Believe These Hotels Really Exist!
Hotels can be much more than just a place to sleep, take a shower and change your clothes! Here are 18 unique and splendid hotels from around the globe.
15 Fantastic Attractions in Annecy, France
In this article, we'll share 15 must-visit attractions in Annecy, France that you won't want to miss.
The Architectural Wonders of Europe Never Looked Better...
Watch as some of the most stunning structures of Europe come alive in beautiful detail.
WATCH: Visit the Stunning Old Chinese Town of Lijiang
The beautiful Old Town of Lijiang in China's Yunnan province is a truly spectacular place that allows you to step into the past. View it in full high definition
10 Breathtaking Landscapes You Will Only Find in Pakistan
Pakistan may not be the first place that comes to mind to travel to. But, here are 10 reasons you need to reconsider.
9 Small American Towns that Are Prettier than a Postcard
The beauty of rural America is often overlooked, but there are some absolutely breathtaking small towns in the US.
The Road to Machu Picchu Makes it Even More Breathtaking
This 5 minute adventure video will make you feel like you're really visiting this amazing Incan temple. The quality is astonishing!
Enjoy 21 Stunning Sunrises from Around the World
Sunrises have something mystical about them. They captivate us with their beauty and enamor us with hope. Here are 21 beautiful sunrises around the world.
When You Go to Japan, It's Like You're on Another Planet!
Japan is a country that'll surprise you so much, you'd be forgiven for thinking that you've arrived in another country. Take a look!
Discovering 10 of the Oldest Nations in the World!
Bet you didn’t know these countries were so old!
12 Great Wineries for Fine Wine and Architecture
These wineries are spectacular! Their impressive facilities are without a doubt, a sight to behold.
Traveling to Two Gorgeous Dutch Cities...
Haarlem and Delft in the Netherlands are places where history and beauty come together...
Christian, Jewish or Muslim - Jerusalem is Holy to All
Jerusalem is holy to three religions. Join a beautiful tour of this piece of history.
12 Stunning Spots That’ll Change the Way You See Poland
12 beautiful and eye popping places in Poland that anyone and everyone should visit, from picturesque little towns with huge and ancient castles to sky-breaking mountains with snowy peaks - there is so much beauty to enjoy.
11 Unique Museums to Visit in the City of Prague
we've compiled a list of the top 11 must-visit museums in Prague!
These Legendary Sites Are Teeming with Mythical Stories
These real-world places have a rich connection to mythology.
COLLECTION: 9 Incredible Festivals From Around the World
his unique interactive image is your gateway to exploring nine of the world's most vibrant and unique festivals.
For Each US State, There is a Sight You Shouldn't Miss!
If you could only tell a visitor to do one thing in your state, what would it be? Did it make our list? This is the ultimate travel guide on things to do in each state.
I Would Be So Happy in One of These Beautiful Little Towns
When you get out of the big cities and start visiting the small ones, you realize you've missed some of the most beautiful places..
Discover Malta, the Jewel of the Mediterranean!
Experience the majesty of Malta, the jewel of the Mediterranean, in this outstanding Ultra HD 4K video!
See the History of Paris Unfold Before You in Gorgeous 3D
Paris wasn't always the City of Lights. It started off as a quaint trading post. Watch its amazing evolution here.
10 Fascinating Places to Visit in Jordan
Jordan is a beautiful and exotic country. As you can imagine, it's home to many places that are worth visiting, such as the capital, Amman. Here are the top 10.
Austria's Lake District Is Gorgeous Beyond Belief!
I have rarely been as stunned as I was when I saw how beautiful Salzkammergut in Austria is. Visit this amazing lake district in Europe.
COLLECTION: The Incredible Beauty of Historical Europe
Discover this huge collection of articles dedicated to the beauty of historical architecture and unique places throughout Europe.
12 Gifts Mother Nature Gave the World...
12 incredible places that are hard to believe are real.
These Gorgeous Colorized Postcards Are Over 100 Years Old
You might think that colored photos in the early 20th Century were unheard of, but Photocrom already existed. Take a look at these stunning colorized postcards.