Assessing the quality of a handmade doily

A well-made doily can be looked at with three areas in mind. First craftsmanship and stitching; second, quality of thread; and third design complexity. A well-made doily will have uniform stitches that are consistent in tension and evenly spaced. It will usually be made of high-quality cotton or linen thread that has a soft and smooth texture. Avoid doilies that feel rough or scratchy. The pattern will sometimes be elaborate with fine details that demonstrate the skilled craftsmanship. However, simple designs can also be charming if executed well. Blocking and edges should not be overlooked. A well-made doily will be neatly finished and maintain its shape. Finally, if possible, it will have a sentimental value as a special treasure that is passed down through generations.