June 2007
Lace knitting might conjure up images of old-fashioned shawls and bed spreads but this new book shows how this addictive knitting technique can look fresh, exciting and fashionable. Traditional lace stitches are used in this collection of 21 patterns for modern knitters to create a wardrobe of lacy garments. There are projects large and small from a pair of lacy mohair cuffs to a full length evening dress. Along with this impressive dress there are other signature patterns that really stand out such as the featherweight dress with a handkerchief hemline that looks like it could be worn by a prima ballerina. As for everyday lacewear, there are several patterns to choose and there is none more flattering that the feather and fan scallop cardigan featured ln the cover. With light summertime tops, an intriguing dropped stitch ruffle skirt, a dramatic hat, silver bracelet and many more patterns this book should keep lace knitters busy for a while. It is an American publication but the yarn weight is given for each project so it is easy to make substitutions. There is a design notebook at the end with tops on
increases, decreases and different effects with swatches to experiment with. The best advise is in the section on common mistakes and easy fixes for those missed manoeuvres.
* Knit Today *
Oct 07
Lace is making the big leap from the catwalk on to the high street this season and knitters have the great advantage of being able to take this trend and truly run with it. One step ahead of the game are the editors of Interweave Knits, Pam Allen and Ann Budd, who have written Lace Style, a wonderful collection of lace knit patterns, that we simply love.
The book is beautifully put together and packed from cover to cover with ideas, techniques and innovative designs to inspire all knitters to knit lace. With 21 gorgeous patterns to choose from, and each design taking a modern twist on a traditional idea, you will be well and truly hooked! The authors encourage you to creatively make the lace designs your own by adding your own personal trims, buttonholes and neckbands. So don't hold back!
Hot on the heels of the authors' previous books, Scarf Style and Wrap Style, which sold more than 100,000 copies each, Lace Style follows in the same enjoyable and easy-to-follow fashion, offering detailed step-by-step instructions and elaborate lifestyle photos, showing the fabulous detail in each pattern. Original designs include the wardrobe essential tank top, beautifully translated into an elegant garment that can be worn with jeans or a floaty dress, and a stunning, featherlight dress with a unique handkerchief hem and lace motif bodice. If you're an experienced knitter, then this book is the one for you, or if you are new to the glory of lace knitting, Lace Style will give you the confidence to get going and create garments beyond your wildest dreams. Enjoy and get knitting!
* Simply Knitting *
No. 116, June 2007
21 designs from 18 designers, compiled by the editors of Interweave Knits...Photography in this 160 page paperback is for knitters: clear stitch detail and close-ups of pattern features are accompanied by side and back views of garments where necessary. The number of designers is reflected in the wide range of patterns: cuffs in wire, a skirt, two shrugs, gloves, anklets, a wide-brimmed hat (complete with detailed instructions on wiring and shaping it) and several tops are followed by a comprehensive and beautifully inspired section on knitting lace. Labelled as 'traditional to innovative' there is probably something for adult females of all ages, although it seems unlikely that any one person would want every item in the book.
Lesley Fidler
* SlipKnot *
April 2007
Lace knitting, with its elaborate patterning of solid fabric punctuated at regular intervals with decorative holes, is the caviar of knitting techniques. Interweave Knits editors Allen and Budd present a varied selection of 21 designs from such leading knitwear designers as Norah Gaughan, Annie Modesitt, and Priscilla Gibson-Roberts. These projects will appeal primarily to lace knitters with intermediate to advanced skills. They include a lacy ruffled skirt; a striking, full-length lace dress and stole; and jewelry knitted with fine-gauge wire and Swarovski crystal beads. A design notebook illustrating all the techniques, ideas for adding lace to your own designs, and hints for fixing common mistakes make this a valuable collection for knitters wishing to take their lace knitting to a higher level. Enthusiastically recommended, especially for large public libraries.
* Fiber Crafts *
