Rundspets

Rundspets is a Nordic term used in textile crafts to describe a decorative lace edging or appliqué characterized by rounded motifs along the edge. The name derives from rund meaning round and spets meaning lace or edging in Swedish and related Nordic languages. The term may cover several specific techniques across regions and time periods.

Description and techniques: Rundspets edges are typically created as trim on garments, cuffs, collars, and household textiles. Motifs are circular or semicircular and linked by fine threadwork. Production methods include needle lace, bobbin lace, crochet, and embroidery, depending on regional tradition. Materials commonly used are linen, cotton, or silk threads on linen or cotton fabrics.

Geographic and historical context: Rundspets appears in Scandinavian and Finnish folk textiles, with variations in patterning and execution reflecting local aesthetics. In some regions, rundspets was integrated into traditional costumes and ceremonial textiles; in others, it served as decorative edging for lingerie and table linens. The practice dates from early modern periods through the 19th century and persists in contemporary craft revival circles as a heritage technique.

See also: Spets, Lace, Lace-making, Bobbin lace, Tatting. Notes: The term is used variably, and precise definitions differ between sources; some references treat rundspets as a general category of rounded-edged lace, while others treat it as a specific regional technique. Further scholarly sources in Nordic textile history may provide more precise usage in particular locales.