Synopses & Reviews
Mohair-silk yarn, renowned for its delicate beauty, has a rapidly growing fanbase around the world. Knitting with it, say devotees, is "highly addictive," partly because its unique elements—the sheen of the silk structure and the haze of the mohair—effortlessly combine to bestow a touch of glamour upon every knitting pattern. Simplicity is the key when working with such yarn, as even the most basic of designs is given an air of complexity by the luster and texture of the mohair-silk. It is with this in mind that Alison Crowther-Smith, author of the popular book
Silky Little Knits, explores new ways of using embellishments and shade work to show this superfine yarn to its best advantage—this time in a sparkling collection of over 20 lace accessories for you and your home.
You'll find step-by-step instructions for both traditional and modern lace patterns—something to suit every knitting palate: from simple lace ribbing, to bold circular lace designs; from lace with beads, sequins, and embroidery, to ideas for fabric backing and color-blending. One-of-a-kind projects include delicate scarves, cozy mittens, shimmering shrugs, glittering bags, and pillows with lattice and floral motifs. Designs vary from easy to more difficult, but all are extremely accessible, regardless of your level of expertise, and were chosen to be quick-to-knit with modern, busy lifestyles in mind. With a special introduction to the ins-and-outs of working with mohair (including the tricks to casting on, matching gauge and tension, finishing, and binding off) and full color photos and illustrations, beginning knitters will have just as much fun creating these projects as the more advanced crafters who may have worked with lace and mohair-silk before. Most importantly, Crowther-Smith's patterns yield the most rewarding results you can imagine: knitwear brimming with delicacy, style, and timeless charm.
Review
"The author has done an excellent job of including patterns for every skill level. If you are a fan of lace knitting, you will have a hard time deciding which of the 20 beautiful projects to cast on first." Love of Knitting (September 2011)
Review
"Math check: Twenty accessories and home accents that sport a halo, courtesy of Rowan's 'Kidsilk Haze' fiber family. Two patterns in particular upend mohair expectations—a chunky cowl knit on big circs and a pillow cover that places an overlay of cornflower-blue 'Kidsilk' diamonds atop a white milk-cotton fabric." —knitsimple magazine (October 2011)
Synopsis
Beginning knitters and accomplished crafters alike will have fun creating projects from this fantastic collection of wearable accessories and decorative accents for the home. Beginning with a special introduction to the ins-and-outs of working with this fluffy yarnthe trick to casting on, matching gauge and tension, finishing, and binding offthis guide provides step-by-step instructions and invaluable tips for success with every design. Knitters will find a wide array of projects to fit their respective styles and skill levels ranging from simple lace ribbing, bold circular lace designs, and lace with beads, sequins, and embroidery to ideas for fabric backing and color blending.
About the Author
Alison Crowther-Smith teaches successful workshops for Rowan, an internationally regarded yarn company. She is a former design consultant for the company and the author of Shibori Knitted Felt and Silky Little Knits.