Success Story

Old handmade lace can be discovered in country flea markets, church bazaars, antiques shops, and auction houses. Notable Manhattan outlets, such as Cora Ginsburg on Madison Avenue and Jana Starr and Jean Hoffman Antiques on East 80th Street, offer historic, museum-quality lace as well as antique lace clothing, linens, and lace pieces, catering to enthusiasts seeking these delicate treasures. For home-care products like Orvus WA paste and acid-free paper, Talas on West 35th Street is a valuable resource. Those passionate about old lace may find the Lace Guild of New York, a four-year-old organization with around 100 members, appealing. The guild, composed of lace enthusiasts, both professionals and amateurs, hosts periodic lectures and workshops. Due to the intricate and fragile nature of old lace, its restoration or conservation typically requires the expertise of professionals. Restoration is undertaken when lace will be worn, while conservation focuses on stabilizing and preserving. The meticulous and time-consuming nature of lace repair makes it an expensive endeavor, with costs varying widely based on the service provided. Bryce Reveley recommends professional cleaning at around $35 to $50, and restoration costs can range from $75 to $100 for items like christening dresses to more extensive projects, such as a 4-by-14-foot Battenberg lace curtain restoration, which required duplicating the pattern and six months of work, costing $2,000. Numerous sources with expertise in restoring and conserving old lace are available for those seeking these specialized services.