Abstract: A hand held tool for starting lace stitching or braiding, including a firm, stabilizing ridge about the perimeter with a relatively thin, flexible plastic panel within the perimeter. The panel includes a systematic scheme of holes that are interconnected by channels. The holes are sized and shaped to accommodate a particular lacing material and the holes are arranged to permit a particular design in the finished gimp. The tool is removed from the finished gimp with the exertion of a gentle separating force.