Nicholas Jarvis
Bobbin Lace Making
Nicholas Jarvis is a bobbin lace maker who has been practising the craft for over thirteen years. He specialises in Torchon lace, a geometric style originating in Belgium, and Honiton lace, the delicate floral lace traditionally made in Devon. Nicholas first began lace making during primary school in Devon after attending a workshop led by master lace maker Pauline Cochrane.
Torchon lace is characterised by strong geometric structure and repeating patterns, while Honiton lace is known for its finely worked floral motifs created as separate elements. Drawing on traditional techniques learned through Pauline’s teaching, as well as historic lace-making sources, Nicholas creates pieces that celebrate and extend these styles.
More recently, he has begun exploring contemporary themes within lace, often inspired by animals and the natural world, using Honiton-style joining techniques to build larger compositions. Alongside his craft practice, Nicholas is an Arts Scholar at the University of Bath, where he studies physics.
Find out more about the heritage craft of bobbin lace making on our Bloomberg Connects guide!
