| Irish Crochet |
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| Written by Barbara Rottman | |||
 Title: Irish Crochet
Author: Kathryn White Date Published: Spring 2011 Review Date: May 3, 2011
Who is this book for? Traditional Irish crochet is re-envisioned for today’s materials and styles in a new book, Irish Crochet, by Kathryn White. Irish crochet is a form of needle lace dating back to the 1846, when making this delicate lace became one of the first cottage industries dedicated to relieving the famine that was then ravishing Ireland. It is distinguished by motifs of leaves or flowers joined by mesh or crocheted bars. From the beginning, this form of crochet was improvisational, following no strict rules for joining the motifs. Creative minds could and did create very different pieces. The lace mimicked Venetian needlepoint lace and was popular on collars and gowns until about 1900. These elaborate laces continue to fascinate and much desired for their intricate beauty. Now modern crocheters can explore the exquisite art of Irish Crochet. Designs feature the classic 3-dimensional look of Irish Crochet worked in leaf and Irish rose patterns. Projects include a shawl, three doilies, hair combs, a scarf, necklace, and a ring pillow. Readers who would like to know more about the history of Irish Crochet and the Irish famine can refer to the exhibit brochure prepared for a sesquicentennial celebration of Irish Crochet.
What Yarn Does it Feature? Irish Crochet Lace is made with a very fine steel crochet hook and fine crochet cotton or linen thread to create fine detail and open mesh. Projects in this book have been adapted for modern crocheters using materials and yarns more familiar to modern artisans. The eight projects are made using size 10 and 20 thread, size 5 pearl cotton, and light or fingering weight yarn.
What's Inside The eight patterns include a heavily embellished shawl, a large scale rose motif scarf, three doilies, and a traditional white wedding ensemble of necklace, ring bearer’s pillow and bride’s hair combs. Comprehensive and detailed instructions are included for each project. Intermediate to advanced skills needed for the projects in this book.
Some knowledge of crochet is needed for the somewhat complex designs in Irish Crochet. While the instructions are detailed and extensive, beginners may be overwhelmed. Intrepid crocheters who want to re-create a bit of Irish history may want to start with one of the smaller doily projects or the bridal necklace, which can be crocheted in white or any other color. This is a wonderful opportunity to gather with in small group of crocheters to work through the projects while helping one another. Learn together and make new friends in the process.
Best Pattern The bridal ensemble and ring bearer’s pillow may become a family heirloom. The three doilies are just as lovely and precious. The Irish Isle doily with colorful rosettes and leaves will beautify your home and proclaim your heritage and your skill. If you prefer to use the white only, consider the Irish Isle or the Irish Whisper doily. Either will ornament your home with the beauty of fine lace.
Recommendation Celebrate the role women’s work played in lifting families out of hard times by re-creating a beautiful piece of Irish Crochet. Kathryn White’s book fills a gap by providing modern ideas for Irish crochet and may just possibly generate another surge of interest in this lovely art form. Overall Recommendation For anyone with an interest in historical crafts, lace, and Irish crafts, this book rates #9.
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