Very dear reader,

This issue of La Encajera is very special to us, it is our 1st anniversary. I remember about two years ago I had mentioned to other lacemakers my desire to create a magazine of this type. I was told Spanish lacemakers were only interested in patterns. But I didn't allow myself to get discouraged and continued my pursuit. What I did was put myself in the place of a lacemaker and remind myself of the need for information. I began this new activity of making bobbin lace after many idle years. I was told "the hands do not forget", which is true. Once I started making lace again I became hungry for information, but I didn't know where to find it. I remember being frustrated in my search for books and teachers that could really teach me the techniques that I wished to learn.

We want to celebrate this first anniversary with you. In this issue you'll read about different types of Spanish blonde, as well as, enjoy 20 different patterns. It is the first time that we offer such a large and diverse collection.

The beautiful lace fan on the cover is for you to make! You can try different types of blonde lace and learn more about its origin. The vest with the lace insert and edging will give you ideas to incorporate lace into your clothing. We are sure that the towel with the initials will be a hit in your home. If there is or will be a baby in your family, this is the time to go to page 16 and enjoy making the bobbin lace bears. On page 17 you will certainly enjoy seeing Brugges Lace, called "Bruges Bloemwork". Have no fear, it appears more difficult than it actually is.

The Royal Tapestry Factory in Madrid is well worth the visit. Read about it and see some of its beautiful pieces on pages 27and 28. We offer you a pretty handkercief on page 25, ideal for any occasion.

In the past year we've shared many lace fairs, workshops and meetings with you in different parts of Spain, and the world. We've always tried to get close to you, opening our arms and inviting you to participate in contests with your lace. We love receiving your letters, they fill us with satisfaction. We often also learn from them, and we don't expect to stop learning anytime soon.

We want you to know that we appreciate your loyalty and we want to continue offering you everything that you want to know and see related to the art of lacemaking.

Don't forget to renew your subscription, for yourself and maybe a gift for a friend? If you have access to the internet, you can visit our web page. We have a surprise gift for you! www.ctv/es/USERS/coast/home.htm

We have only just begun! The world of lace and lacemaking is so huge we feel that we have only scratched the surface of information awaiting us with our six issues of La Encajera.

Hasta siempre,

Letter to the readers | Lace Fan to make | Antique Lace Fans | Ret-fi Catala Lace | Spanish Blonde Lace Flower | Characteristics of Ret-fi | Spanish Blonde Mantilla | Vest with lace insert and lace edging to make | Lets talk about blonde lace | Bobbin lace Bears | Brugges Bloemework Lace | Exercises for the hands | Two Lace Flowers and Two Butterflies | Lace with fringe and initials on a towel | First Lacemaking gathering celebrated in Requena | Mouse making lace | Two little doilies to make | Lace Handkerchief | Instructions for Lace fan, initials, edging, brugge lace and butterflies | Royal Tapestry Factory | Subscription form | Instructions for flowers and lace with bears Lacemakers gathering in Mollerusa Lerida | Letters from the readers | Supplement: Activities | Supplement: 20 Patterns