The revival of spinning and weaving in the Lake District led to the establishment of the Langdale Linen Industry. This cottage industry spun and wove Irish linen which was used for a variety of domestic products. This bag and pincushion, made from Langdale linen, both have panels of Ruskin lace. This lace was inspired by Greek lace and named after John Ruskin who latterly lived near Coniston in the Lake District. Ruskin’s ideas about craftsmanship inspired the Arts and Crafts Movement.
Rectangular flat drawstring bag and matching pincushion made from unbleached linen spun and woven by the Langdale Linen Industry near Coniston in about 1910.
The flax for the linen was imported from Ireland. Both items are lined with cream coloured silk satin. The edges and sides are joined with decorative stitches. A length of cord is inserted front and back for closing the bag. The bag and pincushion both have a central panel of Ruskin lace featuring a flower in drawn thread work revealing a cream satin lining beneath.
This cottage linen industry was part of a revival of Lakeland crafts and became a Cumbrian offshoot of the Arts and Crafts Movement. The linen was used for a variety of domestic furnishings and was often combined with locally made lace. This lace was inspired by Greek lace and was named after John Ruskin. It is still made today.
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery collection, purchase 1979
Image © Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery
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