Lace Knit Shawls, Sweaters, Socks & Hats: 26 Designs Inspired by Japanese Stitch Patterns

by Birgit Freyer

Overview

Lace for every day!

Knitted lace pieces are stunning, but that is no reason to save them for only special occasions. The 26 lace patterns in this book are designed to showcase your stitches in pieces that can be worn anywhere. They incorporate Japanese lace stitch patterns to beautiful effects in pullovers, socks, shawls, hats, mitts, and more, in infinitely wearable patterns. Knit in neutrals, these pieces are easy to pair with items in your closet; knit in fabulous colors, they are showstoppers!

A little unsure of your lace-knitting skills? Have no fear! In addition to the patterns, the book includes an illustrated introduction to lace knitting stitches and charts, and an introduction to sock knitting. The skill level of each pattern is designated, so you can start with a pattern within your comfort zone and build your skills as you go.

Get ready to fill your wardrobe with a selection of gorgeous lace knits!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780811770996
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	12/30/2022
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	160
File size:	61 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Birgit Freyer was born in 1962 and thus still belongs to the generation where girls got their “proper” handicraft lessons. She later studied design and worked as a freelance web designer and lecturer active in adult education. After years of letting her knitting skills lag, she started knitting again 20 years ago. She always worked out her own designs, and when asked about them by friends and others, she began to write out the instructions. For 15 years now, she has made her patterns available at www.die-wolllust.de.

Table of Contents

Contents

Preface6

Basics8

Yarn, needle size and gauge swatch10

Casting on11

Tips & tricks12

Binding off13

Finishing16

Special stitches18

Reading charts21

Knitting symbol explanations23

Sock knitting workshop 24

Knitting patterns from this book25

Patterns26

Yoshiko Hat 28

Yoshiko Cowl 32

Yoshiko Arm Warmers 36

Yoshiko Leg Warmers 40

Airi Shawl 44

Misaki Pullover: Long Sleeve Version48

Misaki Pullover: Short Sleeve Version56

Sachiko Fingerless Gloves 62

Jamini Socks 68

Suyala Scarf74

Suyala Poncho: Option 178

Suyala Poncho: Option 280

Suyala Poncho: Option 382

Hoshiko Triangular Shawl84

Tomomi Tubular Cowl90

Kisaki Cardigan94

Kisaki Pullover102

Natsuki Corner Shawl108

Sayuri Arm Warmers112

Hanayo Cowl116

Ayumi Stole120

Ayumi Scarf124

Akira Socks126

Umeko Stole130

Kiyoe Scarf136

Naomi Pullover 140

About the author148

Thanks 151

Editorial Reviews

01/09/2023

This sophisticated if challenging debut by knitter Freyer shows how to knit a variety of garments using Japanese-inspired designs, which the author suggests are defined by “unusual lace patterns with prominent dynamics.” She offers a detailed overview of knitting basics, covering knitting gauges, casting-on methods, and proper technique for blocking different articles of clothing. Freyer’s designs are intricate and rated according to difficulty, with easier patterns including the white “Yoshiko Hat” and the elegant “Hanayo Cowl.” On the harder side of the spectrum are the beige “Naomi Pullover” with raglan sleeves and the long, flowing “Kisaki Cardigan.” Less advanced knitters will appreciate the gauge swatch charts Freyer provides for every project that help determine proper needle size and stitch count, in addition to serving as practice for each pattern. Knitters accustomed to following written instructions may need time to decipher Freyer’s complicated charts, which are accompanied by minimal written guidance and make use of more than two dozen symbols. Additionally, the author admits having little background in Japanese stitch patterns and there’s virtually no commentary on what makes the designs “Japanese,” raising questions about their authenticity. Nonetheless, experienced knitters will appreciate the elaborate patterns. (Dec.)

Publishers Weekly

10/01/2022

Freyer, a prolific German knitwear designer, turns her attention to lacework in the style of Japanese stitch patterns. With this collection of more than 20 patterns, knitters can closely customize projects to their desired size with her advice for adjusting the number of pattern repeats or increases, rather than just following a given set of directions. Clear, comprehensive instructions for techniques, including those specific to lacework, such as insertion of lifelines and blocking with wires, are accompanied by easy-to-follow drawings and photographs with plenty of contrast. All designs are charted, and suggested yarns are available from Freyer's website. Unfortunately, the book gives little background about Japanese knitting and tends to treat Japanese culture as window-dressing. Two Japanese characters that appear to translate as "wool" are used to designate pattern difficulty without any explanation of what they mean. Japanese given names are used for the majority of the projects, but all the models appear to be white. VERDICT The patterns and instructions are lovely. The gimmicky, surface-level nods to Japanese culture are not.—Judy Poyer

Library Journal