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Bobbin Lace Thread Calculator — Thread per Bobbin by Pattern

Enter your bobbin lace pattern dimensions and style to estimate thread per bobbin, total yardage, and cost

Total Thread

16 yd

Bobbins

12

Per Bobbin

1.2 yd

Cost

$6

Thread Estimate

16
total yards
Bobbins
12
Balls
1
Cost
$6

Bobbin Lace Tips

Wind evenly: Wind the same amount on each bobbin to avoid running out mid-pattern
Extra bobbins: Wind 2–3 extra bobbins as spares for mistakes or joiners
Thread choice: Cotton is traditional; linen gives a crisper look but is less forgiving

What You'll Need

Fiskars 60mm Rotary Cutter Ergonomic Titanium

$11-$154.7
View on Amazon

Rotary Cutter Set with 45mm Cutter A3 Cutting Mat

$24-$294.7
View on Amazon

Fiskars Crafts Essentials 5-Piece Sewing Set

$42-$504.7
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Amiloe Digital Postal Scale 66lb/0.1oz

Amiloe Digital Postal Scale 66lb/0.1oz

$15-$224.6
View on Amazon
888 Display Kraft Jewelry Boxes 50pk

888 Display Kraft Jewelry Boxes 50pk

$12-$184.5
View on Amazon

Fiskars 60mm Rotary Cutter Ergonomic Titanium

$11-$154.7
View on Amazon

Rotary Cutter Set with 45mm Cutter A3 Cutting Mat

$24-$294.7
View on Amazon

Fiskars Crafts Essentials 5-Piece Sewing Set

$42-$504.7
View on Amazon
Amiloe Digital Postal Scale 66lb/0.1oz

Amiloe Digital Postal Scale 66lb/0.1oz

$15-$224.6
View on Amazon
888 Display Kraft Jewelry Boxes 50pk

888 Display Kraft Jewelry Boxes 50pk

$12-$184.5
View on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Example Calculations

1Torchon Bookmark

Inputs

Width4 inches
Length12 inches
Lace TypeTorchon
Thread#40

Result

Total Thread15.5 yd
Bobbins12
Per Bobbin1.2 yd

12 bobbins × (12″ × 3.5 / 36) = 14 yd per bobbin set. With 15% buffer: 15.5 yd total.

2Honiton Motif

Inputs

Width3 inches
Length6 inches
Lace TypeHoniton
Thread#80

Result

Total Thread12.4 yd
Bobbins15
Per Bobbin0.8 yd

15 bobbins × (6″ × 5.0 / 36) = 12.5 yd base. With buffer: 12.4 yd.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

How much thread do I need per bobbin?

Thread per bobbin depends on the pattern length and lace style. For torchon lace at 12 inches long, each bobbin needs about 1.2 yards of thread. Finer lace styles like Honiton need more thread per bobbin due to higher multipliers.

  • Torchon: ~3.5× pattern length
  • Cluny: ~4.0× pattern length
  • Honiton: ~5.0× pattern length
  • Tape lace: ~2.5× pattern length
  • Wind extra thread as joining can be difficult mid-pattern
Q

How many bobbins do I need?

The number of bobbins depends on the pattern width and lace style. Torchon typically needs 6 bobbins per 2 inches of width. Honiton, being finer, needs about 10 bobbins per 2 inches.

  • Torchon: 6 bobbins per 2 inches of width
  • Cluny: 8 bobbins per 2 inches
  • Honiton: 10 bobbins per 2 inches
  • Tape lace: 4 bobbins per 2 inches
  • Always wind 2–3 extra bobbins as spares
Q

What thread size should I use for bobbin lace?

Thread size depends on the lace type and your skill level. #40 cotton is the most common all-purpose size. Beginners often start with #20 (heavier) for visibility, while experienced lacemakers work with #80 or #100.

  • #20: heavy, easy to see, beginner-friendly
  • #40: standard for most bobbin lace
  • #60: fine work, traditional size for Torchon
  • #80–#100: very fine, used for Honiton and collectors' pieces
Q

What is the difference between bobbin lace types?

Each lace type has distinct characteristics. Torchon is geometric and beginner-friendly. Cluny features dense leaf motifs. Bruges uses flowing curves. Honiton is fine English bobbin lace with detailed flowers.

  • Torchon: geometric, uses fewest bobbins, best for beginners
  • Cluny: dense, fan and leaf shapes, French origin
  • Bruges: tape lace with curves, sewn onto a grid
  • Honiton: finest, floral motifs, most bobbins needed
  • Tape lace: narrow decorative strips, fewest bobbins

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Last Updated: Mar 19, 2026

This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.

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