Victorian Lace Today (original 2006; edition 2006)

A somewhat more technical book. Goes into the history of lace knitting in Victorian England. Some very wonderful lace patterns to inspire any lace knitter. ( )

Fabulous, beautiful, I bought it but knitting from it may be a challenge! ( )

A gorgeous book, if the projects are as easy to understand as they are beautiful I will up the rating to a 5 star. ( )

have to really own this one to take full advantage of the patterns ( )

Victorian Lace Today is a spectacular knitting resource. Jane Sowerby outlines the history of knitted lace, and the transition from folk patterns to commercially published patterns. She has adapted 40 designs from the 1800s to early 1900s.

The scarves, shawls, and fichus (lacy collars) are photographed at Victorian era sites in the area around Cambridge, England. The photos typically include a fashion photo showing the garment as worn, and an overview photo displaying the construction. The patterns are well charted, and most include options - different yarn weights, different borders, etc.

A substantial appendix covers basic terminology, principles of lace knitting, and suggestions for modifying or creating lace garments.

Living in a mild damp climate, I have never found scarves or shawls to be either necessary or practical. Based on the number of patterns that I MUST knit, I am going to have to find a way to wear them, or find someone to take them. ( )