This form of decorative needlework originated as a type of pulled thread work or cutwork, whereby threads are pulled out, or cut out of the woven linen fabric. Threads were then used to create various designs into the cloth. Over time, during the nineteenth century, extra warp threads were added to the fabric to work a form of needleweaving and create a lacey effect.
Digital source of illustration (retrieved 23 October 2016).
WV