Taking Yesterday’s Crochet…

… and bringing it into the Modern World!                Karen Whooley

I am always excited when Karen Whooley comes out with a new self-published book.  This one is no exception. Modern Italian Lace Crochet is a history lesson of Karen’s Nonna (grandmother) and lace crochet from  Italy.  The book begins with a short history of Karen’s relationship with her Nonna and crochet, which is truly a gift to the memory of her Nonna.  As with all of Karen’s books she covers gauge, reading charts, and blocking. All of the 10 designs have detailed stitch charts as well as clear written directions. 

My turn

I always like to make or start one of the projects in the books I review.  Here I have started Piazza or Square. 

Here is my sample using some fingering weight yarn from my stash, mine is variegated and I love how the colors pop, especially against the black shirt. I have the coordinating lime green which will be worked into the piece.   Now, I worked the first square from the written directions and the second from the chart. Both were easy to read and follow. I then made the one-sided connect.  Notice the dreaded ends to weave, but this will be a beautiful piece to wear, hopefully to my next fiber show someday. 

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I don’t think I have ever made such a lacey square that when blocked just pops and has structure. 

First sweater option?

If you have never made yourself a sweater, may I suggest Le Semplicita-Simplicity.  Karen makes crocheting your first sweater a breeze. The simple drop sleeve design, double crochet body, and a beautiful lace edge detail. 

All of the yarn weights used in the book are #0 Lace and #1 Fingering. This is what gives here pieces the drape and elegant look and feel. 

Another of the many choices

Another favorite of mine is Architeturra-Architecture. Again, with lace sections worked into the triangle shawl.  I prefer to wear my shawls like in the picture, more as a scarf wrap. 

Final thoughts

What can’t be missed in Modern Italian Lace Crochet and all of Karen Whooley’s self-published books is attention to detail.  The Italian theme is throughout the book from olive branches and espresso to the titles in Italian and English.  The physical size of the book 7” x 10” is the perfect size for a purse or tote, and she always has a visual index to make finding the patterns easy. 

Take a look at my previous reviews of Karen’s books Coastal Crochet and Pineapple Passion.

See all of Karen’s books here. For a limited time, she has select books on sale for 50% off.  While you’re visiting her site sign up for her newsletter for a free pattern too. 

I am happy to offer a giveaway for a digital copy of Modern Italian Lace Crochet from Karen.  Open to everyone.

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