Where did you learn how to knit lace?

Question

I am trying to learn new knitting techniques and am wondering what would be the best way to learn lace. Does anyone know of a book with good instructions? Or should I just go look for a course at my local craft store?

Answer 1

Knitting lace is really fun once you get used to increases, decreases and keeping a close eye on your pattern. My first lace project was "Branching Out" from Knitty : http://knitty.com/ISSUEspring05/PATTbranchingout.html I really liked it because it had the pattern written out as well as charted.



I personally think that the best way for you to learn how to knit lace is to try it! Find a simple lace pattern online (Look for free dishcloth patterns, they're a fantastic way to try out new stitches) and get started! If you decide to go crazy and choose a large lace project to start with, save yourself the frustration and place a stitch marker after every pattern sequence. It would also be a good idea to read up on lifelines: http://www.heartstringsfiberarts.com/lifeline.shtm



Good luck, and above all, have fun learning!

Answer 2

Do you have any yarn shops nearby? That would be the first place I'd recommend. They're more likely than a craft store to have technique classes like lace knitting.



I've heard really good things about a couple of recent books: Arctic Lace" by Donna Druchunas and "Victorian Lace Today" by Jane Sowerby. Both have good technical information about why things work like they do. I think that the patterns in "Arctic Lace" are more beginner-friendly, so you might start there.

Answer 3

I think looking for a course at a craft or needlework store would be a good idea. Real tatting is becoming a lost art - I think it's great that you're wanting to learn. The best lace-tatting artists are going to work for needlecraft stores, rather than a more general craft shop - I'd go to a store that specializes in the various needle arts to learn from a really good person!

Answer 4

My mother and I tried tatting years ago. You need a LOT of patience for this. We didn't like it - too time consuming, and too detailed.



Years ago a friend of mine used the huge (1 inch diameter) knitting needles and cotton crochet string, and "knitted" a tablecloth. It looked like lace, and was beautiful.



There is also hairpin lace. Never tried doing it, and don't know anything about it.