Hand and Lock Embroidery

Hand & Lock is an embroidery company that is a fusion of two, great, long established, embroidery businesses.

In 1767 Goldlacemen called Hand, originally Huguenot refugees from Flanders, added embroidery to their range of laces, cords, and braids. Their skills came from the entourage of Catherine de Medicis, when she married into the French court in the 16th century. They learnt the ancient Italian secrets of gold lace and made them their own.

It was at this time that heraldic art was used to provide a sign of distinction, and to recognise the wearer’s achievement. Garments trimmed with gold lace and embroidery set the wearer apart. The measure of their rank and status was the quality of their apparel.