Types of Lace: Chantilly
All French chantilly lace is not the same!
Chantilly is non-corded lace.
Said in one sentence Chantilly (called “shadow” in French) is non-corded lace. The result: Chantilly is the softest of laces and serves as the base of Alencon, or corded laces.
A French lace is ALWAYS woven, never knitted — a difference that makes all the difference!
The beauty of a chantilly is in the complexity of the pattern
This is something that can only be achieved on Leavers Looms. Two ways this complexity is seen is through the different sized holes and shading variations that appear within a given pattern of French lace.
All French chantilly lace is not the same! Besides differences in pattern/design, there are heavier weight ones as well as lighter ones and some in between, it all comes down to personal preference. Whichever you are tempted by, the weaving process is the same and therefore the durability and comfort (i.e. not itchy) holds true.
Chantilly or Alencon?
After the complex process of weaving, clipping, dying, etc. the lace can be left as a Chantilly or, at this point can be further worked to be turned into an Alencon, or corded lace.
One is not superior to the other, rather just different styles. The addition of cording can act like an optical illusion, adds a third dimension and totally changes the way one sees a pattern.
