Sometimes books fall through the cracks for me a little bit and it takes me longer than it should to review them. I might lose the book somewhere in my office (happens more than I’d like to admit) or I may hesitate because it’s about a style of knitting that I don’t do myself.
That’s probably why it’s taken me so long to get to Magical Shetland Lace Shawls to Knit by Elizabeth Lovick. I’m not into big lace knitting projects, though I can definitely see the appeal for people who are.
And if you are, you’ll probably want to check out this book.
In includes a look at the history of Shetland knitting and is great for knitters without a lot of intricate lace experience because it includes five “apprentice” projects, mini shawls that help you learn the basic shapes and techniques before you tackle a full-sized shawl.
The 15 other patterns are ranked on a skill level of one to three and there are five of each, so you have some choices right away no matter what level you are on. Most of the projects (see them all on Ravelry) are large shawls, but there are also some baby things, a couple of smaller shawls and a scarf.
There’s also a section on core techniques covering tools, yarn, chart reading, keeping your place, adding in yarn, adding borders, fixing mistakes and dressing (aka blocking) your project.
There are also a lot of examples for different ways to wear a shawl, which is helpful.
If you’re into the classic look of Shetland lace projects, you’ll want to give this book a peek. If you’ve knit something from it or have it on your shelf, I’d love to know what you think.
About the book: 144 pages, paperback, 15 patterns. Published September 2105, St. Martin’s Griffin. Suggested retail $24.99.
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