Hairpin lace crochet emerged in the 1840s and was aptly named because of the loom’s resemblance to a lady’s hairpin. While the hairpin lace crochet method was historically used for lace patterns, this modern-day design utilizes butcher’s twine from your kitchen to produce a more substantial result. Using a crochet hook and hairpin loom, strips are made and then crocheted together. Just four strips created on the hairpin lace loom makes a 14” circular placemat. One ball (1200 yards) of twine will make 3 placemats. If you can’t find a hairpin lace loom at your local craft store, I recommend an adjustable loom made by Chetnanigans on Etsy.