I have been crocheting since I was 5, when my grandmother taught me how to make my first chain. I loved to make them long enough to cover my entire bedroom. Then I got into the more difficult items, and have been doing it ever since.  Making crocheted doilies is my favorite, there are so many wonderful patterns (that I have not tried yet) out there.  I make most of my doilies out of 100% acrylic yarn, or baby sport yarn, I am not going to claim that I am a master, I have never got into making the thread doilies.  There is a plus to using the acrylic sport weight yarns.  They are heavier, thicker, and very durable.  Depending on the details on the doily, you can either toss them in the washer, and tumble dry or air dry.  If you tumble dry make sure to use fabric softner or they will be full of static, and need to be stretched.  Air dry is the best, takes a bit longer, but better for the life of your doily.  Acrylic sport yarn doilies are also great to use on a patio table, picinic table, or just a small conversation table.  Take the beauty outside with you, and not destroy your dainty doilies in the process.