An embroidery lace machine is driven by electric signals. A plurality of selection plates control a jacquard and can move horizontally in response to control elements. A reset bar returns the selection plates to their original positions. In one embodiment, the control elements consist of plates aligned with the selection plates and biased into contact with the selection plates. Electrically actuated solenoids selectively prevent movement of selected ones of the control elements. In a second embodiment, the control elements are wires selectively engageable with a sliding plate. Electrically actuated solenoids are provided for selectively connecting the control elements with the sliding plate.