Lace and lacemaking Books

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Book SynopsisTorchon lacemaking is a textile art steeped in tradition - the skills required are often perceived to be beyond the reach of ordinary mortals. In this practical book, Jan Tregidgo describes those skills through a step-by-step guide and makes them accessible to all. She explains traditional techniques through a series of specially designed samplers, which can be worked in order by the beginner or in any order they choose by the more experienced. Although colour is not traditional in bobbin lace, it has been used here to great effect so the path of each thread can be clearly followed through the sampler.

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Book SynopsisExplore the world of Bobbin Lace with this book, which takes you through simple Torchon ground pieces to scarves, purse and bags. Bobbin lace may look complicated when you see a pillow set up with dozens of bobbins, but it will seem far less daunting when you realise that only four bobbins (two pairs) are in use at any one time, and there are only two moves – twist and cross – that you can do. While the basic lace stitches are common to all types of bobbin lace, different lacemaking traditions developed different ways of putting these stitches together. Bruges lace, for example, uses less than a dozen pairs of bobbins and a relatively coarse thread to create curved braids and flower-like motifs which are linked to form the fabric; on the other hand point ground laces, such as Chantilly or Bucks Point, are worked from one end to the other in fine silk or cotton and may need a hundred pairs or more.Trade ReviewThis is by far the best teaching guide for this craft. Bobbin Lace or Tatting, is a stunning project and can be used for making bookmarks, beautiful scarfs and cushions as well as being used for trimming. An age old craft, that is becoming more and more popular, this book has easy to follow instructions, templates and with a terrific visual format as well as written methods, it makes this an achievable skill to learn and to master. The detail and the beauty of the techniques is amazing. The finished projects are stunning and with the variety and varying sizes something small can be managed by every beginner or advanced lace-maker. -- Tracy Shephard * Postcard Reviews *Summer 08 This book is designed for the newest recruit to bobbin lace making. It is attractively presented and gives an introduction to the tools used, instruction in basic stitches and several small items for the beginner. In addition to the basic stitches, there is instruction in preparing a pricking, tying in new threads and finishing off, and the final section includes some quite complicated projects. One criticism: the instructions are easy to follow, the photographs show threads in two shades of grey on a dark blue background. I think two brightly coloured, contrasting threads would be much easier for the beginner, who may progress to something more elegant later. This is a very practical book, and as it progresses from very simple to fairly difficult, I think it would keep one busy for some time! Sylvia Quixley, Penzance * West Country Embroiderers *Oct 07 I have always been mystified by the lacemaking process, but this book explains the methods so clearly that I feel I could possibly attempt a small sample. I was interested to find out that there are only two moves, twist and cross and only two pairs of bobbins in use at a time. Materials and techniques are well explained with good illustrations and photographs before the projects begin. The samples and finished products illustrated are quite beautiful, with a lively colour range which I would not normally associate with this ancient tradition. This book would be very useful to both beginners and more acomplished lacemakers. * Merseyside Embroiderers Guild *April 09 I'm rather impressed with a new book by Gillian Dye and Adrienne Thunder, "Beginner's Guide to Bobbin Lace"... It also has a lot of pretty and clear pictures showing stitches and closeups of projects in progress. It's a great book for learning BL on your own, although it may be a bit too basic for use with a teacher. I made sure that the local library (where I work) bought this book, about six months ago, and have been pleased to note that it has been almost continuously on issue since then! I know of one borrower who isn't able to attend classes in the city (three-quarters of an hour away) who has taught herself, mainly from this book. Last week, we had a lace workshop day in the city, where we worked on various Torchon bookmark designs. I can't remember ever having started a bookmark at a point, but my copy of the "Beginner's Guide" had just what I needed for me to be able to start to work my bookmark at home, before the workshop - clear, large, coloured photographs. I took the book to the workshop, and it was much in demand for expert lacemakers who had forgotten (because of no recent need to use the technique), a very basic process!-Erica McLeod, in NZ * Customer *May 08 A very competitively priced book of 80 pages, printed on high quality glossy paper throughout, it contains full colour photos and close-up step-by-step black and white photos of six bookmarks, along with five further designs entitled Four Seasons. These include a purse, two scarves, a bag and a pattern, which could be used either to decorate a cushion or make into a hanging. The prickings are also available in the back of the book along with details of the necessary enlargements when photocopying. The book is as it says a beginner's guide and starts with an introduction to lacemaking along with a guide to the necessary materials. The photos here are lovely – lots of bobbins, modern brightly coloured threads (no white in sight!) and beads. The bookmark collection starts with more tempting photographs, followed by the necessary preparatory work. A plait is then worked with excellent photographs of each bobbin movement; however, the completed plait (worked in cotton perlé) is far from exciting. A series of bookmarks follows, introducing a variety of stitches and techniques, also worked in cotton perlé – all with excellent instructions. The second section, however, is the most inspiring part of the book. Large-scale patterns and textured yarns are used to make or decorate usable objects – the photos really make you want a trip to the local thread shop, to try something different! A complete beginner could easily use this book to teach themselves the basics of bobbin lace; a super publication, which even more experienced lacemakers should buy – particularly if they fancy having a go at using the more exciting modern threads on offer these days. Best of all, it's written in English by English authors. Sally Wadsworth * The Lace Guild *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Materials 8 The Bookmark Collection 14 Basic techniques 16 Four strand plait 18 Cloth stitch bookworm 22 Half stitch bookworm 28 Torchon ground bookmark 30 Torchon bookmark with spiders 34 Torchon bookmark with diamonds 38 Torchon bookmark with trails 42 Additional techniques 46 Four Seasons 50 Spring Purse 52 Summer Scarf 56 Summer Bag 62 Autumn Cushion 66 Winter Scarf 70 Patterns 78 Index 80

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Book SynopsisTatting is an accessible and thriving craft that is perfect for creating beautiful necklaces, pendants, bracelets and earrings. Esteemed tatter Lyn Morton showcases her stunning designs in this fantastic new title. Containing a diverse range of exquisite jewellery projects to create and inspire, each beautiful piece is carefully photographed and accompanied by easy-to-follow tatting diagrams.

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Book SynopsisA valuable sourcebook of charming and innovative patterns for all levels of ability. Each pattern includes easy-to-follow instructions and clear charts for guidance. All the patterns are very versatile and can be adapted for a multitude of uses, from jewellery to window hangers.

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Book SynopsisTatting is simple and portable, and this concealed spiral bound book can be laid flat for ease of use. It includes lots of useful tips throughout and a Tools and Techniques section. It features instruction to make 65 patterns or motifs and 60 designs. This is a great book from a U.K. author. Tatting is basically a handmade lace, with each stitch composed of two half-hitch knots. The appeal of the craft is that it is simple and portable, you can take your tatting equipment anywhere, and now that "Tatting Collage" is republished as a concealed spiral bound book it will be easy to use 'on-the-go'. As well as offering great fun and flexibility, it also avoids the need to handle large and complicated pieces of tatting - a bonus if you are pressed for time or are new to the craft and looking for encouragement.

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Book SynopsisTypically associated with frilly hankies and flouncy collars that are time-consuming to make and invariably white, the 30 projects in this book span the colour spectrum and make use of a range of media including paper, fabric, thread and even concrete! This original and exciting guide to lace is a visual feast of 30 inspiring step-by-step projects. It includes in-depth features and fascinating asides relating to the history of lace and it will encourage you to experiment and inspire you with handy tips. The projects use bobbin lace, needle lace, needle weaving and drawn-thread work, all of which are clearly illustrated for beginners. Some projects feature techniques such as using concrete and papier-mâché; some feature ready-made lace, either entirely, or as something that can be added to. Trade ReviewThere are tired old stereotypical ideas of lace that this book merrily sets about challenging and blowing apart. Elizabeth Healey takes lace in all sorts of directions, making for an unexpected and entertaining journey. Throughout stories are interwoven giving not just historical context but bringing the skill to life. Although it’s Elizabeth’s refreshing definition of lace that is the real triumph. Certainly, she pays proper respect to the tools and techniques: bobbin lace, tatting, net darning, needlelace and more are covered. But it’s when the projects start that the fun begins: using a soldering iron to make a paper-lace bowl and embroidering spray painted leaves run alongside a magical set of fairy wings and an heirloom scarf fashioned from happy memories. By dipping into other skills and inspiring creative experimentation, Elizabeth’s book offers so much more than was ever expected and becomes even more appealing. You’ll never think of lace in the same way again! * Stitch *This book is beautifully presented with a wealth of detailed instructions to inspire creation of an enormous variety of lace designs. Coloured photos and line drawings of clearly laid out techniques add to the quality of the book. -- Diane Whale * Amazon Customer Review *A great book for someone new to lace making but ready to explore projects using lace. As an enthusiastic embroiderer I like the variable ideas for lace making additions to new projects. The basics are covered with clear and easy to follow illustrations. Whilst the creative ideas may be quirky and in some ways involve abstract concepts they can be incorporated into many other pieces of work. I’m excited about the opportunities to experiment with button shapes, tatting ideas, silhouette designs and vintage patterns for example. Lots to incorporate into possible wall hangings, garments or ornamental objects. A great book for the lace making beginner but who’s also someone who’s ready to explore and expand on ways to get creative with lace. -- Christine Plimmer * Amazon Customer Review *This feast of 30 inspiring step-by-step projects includes in-depth features relating to the history of lace. Bobbin and needle lace, needle weaving and drawn-thread work are all clearly illustrated for beginners. * Machine Knitting Monthly *Beautifully photographed. Lots of different ideas using lace both old and new. Suitable for all abilities. Recommend that you buy this book and get inspired to make beautiful things. -- Rosemary Hydes * Amazon Customer Review *Good clear instructions to a range of interesting and new patterns. -- Vicky Reynolds * Amazon Customer Review *I am a complete beginner when it comes to crafting with lace, but loved a lot of the project ideas in this book. There is 30 to choose from. There is a wonderful introduction at the beginning of the book, which was great for me as a beginner, which goes through all the tools like needles, pins and threads etc. It is recommended to invest in a basic sewing kit to begin with. There is also sections on bobbin lace basics, tatting basics, net darning, embroidery basics with easy to follow diagrams. I found the information quite easy to digest and quick to pick up the concepts paired with the diagrams. There is various templates for some of the projects at the back of the book. Not all of the projects would be things I would jump to make, but there is lots to choose from and some of the projects I particularly like are: Shirtwaist buttons (needle lace buttons) Fairy Wings Paper Lace Bowl Skeleton Leaf Fan I definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in lace wanting to be inspired! -- Charlotte Geoghegan * Amazon Customer Review *Getting creative with lace is what this book is all about. There are 30 projects using lace, whether that be handmade, shop bought, vintage or scraps. The designs of each project in this book are both unusual and unique. I love the quirkiness that is incorporated in the projects and I think this adds to their beauty. It is well worth reading this book before you dive into any of the projects. There is a lot of information and the illustrations do help with the understanding of working with lace and lace making in general. There are templates included, and I just reading the stories about lace that is littered throughout the book. This interesting book is quite appealing, and whatever you think about lace in general be prepared to have a change of thought. -- Tracy Shephard * Postcard Reviews *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 The basics 8 A basic sewing kit 10 Tools for making lace grounds 12 Bobbin lace basics 14 Preparing bobbins 14 Cross and twist braid 15 Cloth stitch 16 Whole stitch lace 19 Double whole stitch lace 24 Tatting basics 25 How to hold the needle 25 Making a double stitch 26 Making picots 26 Rings 27 Chains 27 Joining picots 27 Joining in new threads 27 Split rings 28 Net darning 29 Embroidery basics 31 Needlelace stitches 31 Drawn and pulled stitches 34 Freestyle embroidery 37 Found & made 38 Something old, something new 40 Visible mending 44 Fish motif 46 Little green fingers 50 Peggy-Sue 52 Shirtwaist buttons 56 On the button 60 Teneriffe lace 62 Wall hanging 66 Torchon headband 70 Rag doll Tattiana 72 Floating cloud 75 Fairy wings 78 Reimagined 82 Paper lace bowl 84 Low-sew lace bowls 87 Gold leaves 88 Moths to a flame 92 Shadow boxers 94 Shadow play: Black Queen 96 Red queen 100 Skeleton leaf fan 102 Lace impressions 106 Sailor boy 110 Twisted lace 112 Printed ephemera 114 Templates 118 Further reading 127 Index 128

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Book SynopsisThe supportive, detailed guide that crafters want for frustration-free learning of all the basics, including core techniques and 40 different patterns.

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Book SynopsisWhat is that lace? How old is it? Has it been made by hand or machine? What would it have been used for? These are the types of questions that this practical guide sets out to answer. Lavishly illustrated, it shows you how to identify the sort of lace that you might find hiding away in drawers and cupboards, or buy at a vintage textile fair. It deals predominantly with the hand-made and machine laces of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Topics covered include: an introductory survey of the different types of lace, their history and construction; guidelines for a systematic approach to lace identification and advice on cleaning and storage; chapters on the different types of lace: bobbin lace, needlelace, craft laces such as crochet and tatting, machine lace and lace based on tapes and nets. There are exercises on distinguishing similar pieces of lace made using different techniques and there are illustrations of how lace has been used and of some of the tools used in the making. Written by experienced lacemakers, Gilian Dye and Jean Leader, it presents items from their own collections to illuminate and inspire others who wish to know more about this fascinating textile. Lace Identification is a complete guide to the beauty of this stitch craft, and will richly reward all those who study the treasures they may own.

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Book SynopsisKnotted lace is one of the oldest forms of making lace and is believed to have originated in the Eastern Mediterranean around 2000 years ago. Also commonly referred to as Armenian Lace, it is also known as Bilila, Oya, Palestinian Lace, Nazareth Lace, Smyrna Stitch and Phoenician Lace. Elena Dickson has a wide audience for her lace making techniques, from touring Australia and the USA conducting workshops. This latest book has all new motifs and doily designs and includes all stitch instructions, descriptive diagrams and black and white photographs of finished projects.

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Book SynopsisStretch a single skein of yarn into a complete knitted lace project. Knitters of all levels will be thrilled by the dizzying array of lace wonders that can be created with such a small fiber sample. Try your hand at an heirloom-quality lace shawl, light and airy curtains, cozy baby blankets, a dainty child's dress, and much more. With clear instructions for 101 projects contributed by designers and knitters from around the world, you'll be inspired to pull out your needles and get knitting.

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Book SynopsisFeatures 20 original patterns for gorgeous lace shawls, sweaters, hats, gloves and socks. This title provides thorough instruction on the best lace techniques for aspiring, experienced and advanced knitters. It demystifies lace knitting by explaining the basics and offering the best techniques to create the most intricate-looking patterns.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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