Lace Strip, c. 1600 (edging added later), 53 1/2 x 10 in. (135.89 x 25.4 cm), Linen; embroidered knotted net (Lacis); lace, Italy (), 16th-17th century, Knotted net was a textile which had been used by fishers and trappers since ancient times. In the 16th century, refined versions with small grid structures were developed to be used by embroiderers as a ground fabric as they created fashionable new fabrics. Using a simple darning stitch, fanciful patterns, which related to the popular design aesthetic of the day, could easily be developed.