Irish Lace:  Foundation chain vs thread

I am beginning to explore the art of Irish Lace.  Among the things I have learned is that many of the patterns require a foundation thread or threads to get the proper effect in the design.  If you are like me and have a nerve injury in the hand or arthritis you may like what I have done here.

 I have made a chain with the same size thread to stitch over.  The chain is easier to hold on to. This will work if you need 3 or 4 strands of foundation thread.

 I only use this when my hand will not hold the threads.  The art of Irish Crochet Lace should always be created according to the patterns this is a creation of my own. 

 This is the periwinkle pattern I created.