The lucet, also known as a chain fork, is a lyre shaped tool popular in the 18th to mid 19th centuries. Many an antique sewing box or needlework kit has a lucet contained therein. They were used to produce strong, tightly braided cord used for practical purposes like lacing or tying clothing, or in a purely decorative role such as a fancy neck chain. A Godey's Ladys' Book of the early 1900s shows a lucet being used to make a black silk watch braid. Cords can be made that look like woven hair by using several strands of silk suiting thread together. There are endless variations you can achieve with this simple tool, once you get the hang of it. We recommend a smooth, twisted cord or heavy thread.

Our lucets are made of durable hardwoods and are a good 1/4" thick. They are finished to feel good in the palm of the hand and have bowed arms to prevent your cord from slipping off. Each one comes with a set of illustrated instructions and the brief history mentioned here. Please let us know your choice of woods below.

LUCET WOOD:
Maple or Cherry

#500-W, Pocket Lucet, 2 1/4" wide x 4" long
9.00 each

(Handled Lucet no longer available)