Lovin' Lace

Lately I've been fascinated with lace. I only learned this week the different textures for lace like Chantilly and Duchesse. So lovely and romantic--each one more intricate and detailed than the next.

I'm so thankful that I know how to crochet. This lets me achieve that lacy look without spending too extravagantly! I love the designs of crocheted lace by Doris Chan, Vashti Braha, Lily Go and our very own Mimi Alelis. I even love the look of freeform lace (by Myra Wood) even though I don't personally like making freeform crochet all that much.

So for those whose interest I managed to get piqued, I'm sharing with you the link to the latest free ebook from Interweave Crochet:

http://www.crochetme.com/Crochet-Lace/

"Crochet Lace Pattern #1
Corset Belt by Sandi Wiseheart— Inspired by such Hollywood stars as Queen Latifah, this easy crochet lace corset is crocheted using suede and accented with three crocheted flowers. Corset belts can be worn high or low, to accentuate your own favorite curves."

"Crochet Lace Pattern #2
 Broomstick Lace Capelet by Kate Pullen—Looking from broomstick lace patterns? Light and airy, the Broomstick Lace Capelet by Kate Pullen combines mohair and silk yarn with broomstick lace to create a capelet with the perfect combination of elegance and practicality. Surprisingly warm, this accessory highlights the beauty of broomstick crochet. Stylish enough for an evening out and cozy enough for a stroll by the water, the capelet makes a beautiful addition to many outfits."

"Crochet Lace Pattern #3
 Crocus Scarf by Laura Rintala—The Crocus Scarf by Laura Rintala lends the perfect crocheted lace touch to your spring ensemble. This easy crochet lace pattern is crocheted from luscious silk and begins with a simple fan-lace pattern."

"Crochet Lace Pattern #4
 Tunisian Lace Ascot by Ellen K. Gormley— If you want to learn Tunisian crochet, the Tunisian Lace Ascot by Ellen K. Gormley is a great introduction to this technique. This quick and simple crochet lace scarf transitions seamlessly through the seasons, and the easily memorized crochet lace pattern makes it an ideal travel project. Though simple, the result is elegant and practical."

"Crochet Lace Pattern #5
 Victorian-Inspired Lace Bracelet by Sarah Read— Don’t let the tiny hook and thread fool you—this charming crochet lace pattern works up quickly. The Victorian-Inspired Lace Bracelet by Sarah Read is reminiscent of historic thread crochet. Inspired by vintage Weldon's patterns, this charming lace bracelet makes a fast gift and shifts effortlessly from elegant to modern."


Of all these patterns, I've only made the bracelet (and I made it a looong time ago!). I made a few variations, though: I made a strap with an improvised, crocheted toggle clasp for easier closure. Here are a few pictures, and you can see my Ravelry project page for it, too: http://ravel.me/clairethere/vilb

I do love the Tunisian ascot and broomstick lace capelet! I don't see any practical uses for those though... *sigh* But it's always great to learn a new crochet technique. :)

Happy hooking!

(Mis) Adventures in Hairpin Lace

I went cuckoo when I found a hairpin lace loom/ crochet fork the last time I went to Dreams Yarn Shop. I asked about it the last time, and they said they didn't have it. Turns out, it's been there the whole time and the shop assistant just didn't know about it. =

Thanks to my boyfriend (who indulged me and bought me a skein of pretty sparkly pink yarn). <3 Talking Crochet:



I omitted the extra shells on both ends because I wanted to make a headband with it, instead of a bookmark. I tried it on my head though, and it looked costume-y so I abandoned it and chose more subtle colors for my next trial:

By this time, I was so confident with my hairpin lace capabilities, and decided to widen and lengthen the band. I got into the groove. Hairpin lace really is relaxing, and all that jazz. My mind drifted off contentedly.

Aside from overguesstimating the measurements of the whole thing, I ended up with this, a tangled, useless piece:

Lesson learned. Note to self: look at the project from time to time to see if it actually resembles the end product you want. =

What else can I do but try again? =) This time I used a much more pleasant color combination -- pale pink and silver grey (my fave color combination lately). I'll post a picture of the finished product when I'm done. =)