Knitch Magazine

Title:

Author: Anne Merrow

Date Published: 2011

Review Date: September, 2011

Who is this book for?

Editor Anne Merrow collected a wide assortment of lace patterns from the Interweave vaults for the exciting new book Knitted Lace. This is the type of book that makes you want to grab some yarn and needles to immediately start one of the lovely lace projects. The collection goes beyond the expected emphasis on shawls, scarves and stoles to include socks, skirts, hats, sweaters and blouses, illustrating the versatility of lace. The projects are geared for a range of skills, too. Aware that lace is alluring enough to entice all knitters, the editor includes detailed “Lace Lessons” that guide readers through the technical aspects of knitting lace and shaping lace garments.

What Yarn Does it Feature?

The amazing variation possible in lace knitting is on display in Knitted Lace. There are projects in all weights of yarn from extra fine laceweight to bulky. The diamond medallion patterned Dorflinger Tee is a striking example of contrasts: delicate lace worked in chunky Peruvian wool. In another unexpected pairing, the spiral lace Oneshot Lace Hat (Interweave Knits Summer 2009) is knit in worsted weight cotton. Precious fibers like qiviut, cashmere, silk and alpaca are a natural choice for lace, but are not a necessity. Knitted Lace displays projects knit in these luxurious yarns and in fine cotton, merino, and wool, too. Follow the recommendations to experiment with different yarns and needle sizes to discover the different effects possible in lace.

Fountain Pen Shawl Spiral Boot Socks Isis Wrap

What's Inside

As we have come to expect from Interweave publications, Knitted Lace emphasizes technique and good design, always with a nod to the knitting heritage. Lace patterns are therefore charted and the patterns include helpful notes, close-up shots of design details and generally follow simple construction methods. Very useful expository articles on basic technique and the art and craft of knitted lace make interesting reading and offer expert tips on better lace knitting. The detailed glossary with detailed instructions for everything from cast-on to blocking is worth reviewing, too.

Using It

Browse through Knitted Lace to find the project that fires your passion; chances are you won’t get very far before you’ve tagged several designs. In this book each project stands alone. The projects are not categorized by type, gauge, motif, or any other classification. The Lace Lessons are sprinkled through the book, offering helpful suggestions for the patterns that follow. Knitting lace does require a level of experience and is greatly helped by the ability to read charts. However, even beginners can find projects well suited to them. Aided by the book’s excellent advice and glossary, new lace knitters will find success with the Seine Scarf, Simply Lovely socks, and Indigo Ripples skirt. The patterns are not experience rated, but a review of the introductory notes, list of abbreviations used in the charts and pattern outline should reveal how complex the pattern will be to knit.

Best Pattern

Not every knitter has the gams for the Bettie’s Lace Stockings or the lyrical Spiral Boot Socks, but the Wakame Lace Tunic would be stunning on just about anyone. The pattern fits a range from 33 ¼ “ to 56 ¾”. The model allows a generous 5” of ease, so this pattern is sized to fit nearly anyone and can be easily adjusted with slight changes in needle size. It uses stitches that create self-finished edges; the neckline is finished with a simple I-cord trim. The lower body is worked side to side and then joined. Stitches for the upper body are picked up and worked to the underarms and then the front and back (including sleeves) are worked separately. The sleeves and shoulders are joined using a 3-needle bind off. The simple garment construction allows the knitter to concentrate on the lace patterns, not fussy shaping.

Recommendation

Lace enthusiasts will swarm to this wide ranging collection of beautiful lace projects. Knitted Lace presents a collection of compelling designs that are stylish and interesting to knit.

Overall Recommendation

Knitted Lace rates #9. There are multiple versions of several different types of projects, from socks to stoles that will keep your interest from start to finish.