From what I can find it different than knitting, but possibly similar.
I found reference to some books that seem to indicate this...
Misses Watts : The Ladies' Knitting and Netting Book for 1837 (1837 John Miland)
Jane Gaugain : Miniature Knitting, Netting & Crochet Book (1843)
Misses Watts : Selections of Knitting, Netting & Crochet Work (1843)
Mr Hope & Mrs George Curling : Book of Babies' Wardrobe in Knitting & Netting (1844)
http://www.booksandwriters.co.uk/wri...efore-1910.asp