The art of Sicilian bobbin lace - How a native artisan makes the most refined bobbin lace creations!

#bobbinlace #bobbinlacejewelry #handmadeinsicily

Dear Sicily Lover,
in this episode you'll discover the art of bobbin lace.

We are excited to introduce you to Cinzia and share her story with you.

The first traces of bobbin lace (Tombolo in Italian) were found at the beginning of the 15th century in Italy.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, bobbin lace was very fashionable and during the Baroque and Rococo periods masterpieces of bobbin lace were been produced.

The art of bobbin lace reached Sicily at the beginning of the last century. A wealthy woman named Angelina Auteri who was the wife of Prince Biscari of the municipality of Mirabella Imbacarri, had previously learned the art of Tombolo under the guidance of nuns from the Convent of the Congregation of St. Dorothea in Rome. A few years later in 1910, Angelina Auteri called four nuns to move to her town to teach the local women this same art. This gave birth to the “Opera del Tombolo”, which became an important artistic workshop in their community.

Mirabella's women worked entire days on the creation of fine garments that Angelina promoted in the aristocratic gathering in Catania. While the precious kits with linen and cotton lace in white and ecru entered the homes of the young Sicilian noblewomen, the Mirabellese embroiderers emancipated themselves, gaining economic independence for the first time.

Over the years, the Mirabellese bobbin lace has been handed down from mother to daughter. The tinkling of wooden spools in the air rubbing up against each other has created a magical sound to listen to for several generations.

Bobbin lace is very fine, precise and intricate work. Although there are only two basic stitches in bobbin lace, there are a great variety of different bobbin laces which are distinguishable by their patterns.

Mirabellese bobbin lace has distinguished itself for its elegance and the peculiar style of its designs embellished by the influences of Sicilian Baroque style.
Today it has become one of the finest laces in Italy and the small town has earned the name of “Village of the Tombolo”.

Bobbin lace is a very elaborate handicraft that requires a lot of skill and patience. Today’s existing embroiderers can spend many hours a day for days, weeks, and even years to finish a project.
This is why the artisans who continue this wonderful art are so few, and their works are so precious!

Whether it’s a figure of the Madonna, a Sicily shaped pattern, a pendant, earrings, or a trousseau for your wedding, the embroiderers' passion and love for Tombolo is what matters the most!

These refined Sicilian ornaments will enrich yourself or your home with the charming elegance of the Sicilian heritage!

Of course Cinzia is one of the skillful artisans involved in our Sicily Lover project.

WHAT IS THE SICILY LOVERS PROJECT?

The Sicily Lover project’s goal is to help the most talented Sicilian artisans preserve ancient traditions and crafts that are disappearing.

As native proud Sicilians, we own a dynamic tour company which helps people enjoy amazing experiences in Sicily.
Over the years we have been working to spread love for Sicily and this gave birth to one of the biggest communities of Sicily Lovers in the planet.

We understand that finding authentic handmade in Sicily products - if you are overseas - can be challenging.
Therefore we are launching the first and the biggest 100% handmade in Sicily online store.

Come on in and discover our Made in Sicily products such as traditional Sicilian clothing, pottery, jewelry, and other charming artwork:

https://sicilylover.com/

In a fully standardized commercial market, we and our craftsmen offer you the possibility of having unique pieces completely produced and manufactured in Sicily. No two items are alike because everything is handcrafted for you!

When you buy our products, you help support the Sicilian economy and local artisans. You will contribute in preserving these wonderful customs.

Our mission is to expand the wonderful family of Sicily Lovers, to promote our beloved island of Sicily around the world, and to allow you to own a part of excellent Sicilian craftsmanship.

If you want us to help you plan a memorable trip to Sicily please come discover our website:
https://bestthingstodoinsicily.com/

But if you cannot travel to Sicily, we will bring Sicily to you:
https://sicilylover.com/

Proudly display these precious pieces of Sicily and become a proud ambassador of our beloved island.

Love, hugs, and kisses from Sicily!