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Knit and Crochet with
Beads by Lily M. Chin Lily Chen is world renown as a professional designer, using her crochet and knitting skills, to create magnificent wearables. She is an instructor, author and entertainer as well. Her classes are usually filled with a waiting list. It is no wonder her book, Knit and Crochet with Beads is leaping off the store bookshelves by avid crochet and knitters. Lily’s new book is a treasure of information and design. You need to already know basic knitting or crochet or both before working through her book. The knitting section includes a scarf, socks, necklace, tank top, vest, pullover, beaded pockets, tunic, cardigan, pillow, jacket, collar and tunic. The crochet section includes 2 bags, a stole, wristlet, vest, beaded pockets, choker, necklace, lariat/belt and camisole. The beaded pockets in both knit and crochet, offers a comparison of the two methods and how the final pieces look. Instructions are provided from stringing beads to crocheting or knitting with them, and this is just the beginning. Lily provides a variety of techniques for applying the beads to the fiber and bead placement with photographs of how the beads set in these placements. Tips, technique illustrations and how to work unique shapes such as sequins and bugles are all included. The technique of adding beads onto the working thread, flipping a bead, would have been better served if the fine hook size, 16/.4mm, had been included along with the sizes 6/0 and 8/0 as the seed beads the hook will accept. The Beadler www.jawak.com, a new tool on the market, will easily attach the beads for the same appearance in both crochet and knitting, is much easier to use and will work for smaller beads. There is a blank graph at the back of her book for your own bead crochet or knitting designs followed by a few of Lily’s designs such as a hat, snake and mermaid dress. You do not need to be adept at crocheting or knitting clothing to enjoy this book. Knit and Crochet with Beads is a valuable resource and reference book without making the projects. You can make a sampler using basic stitches of crochet or knitting and Lily’s instructions and apply that learned knowledge to your own creations. The knitted scarf, necklace and pillow and the crocheted amulet bag, lariat/belt and wristlet are easy projects for the advanced beginner. Lily’s book, Knit and Crochet with Beads is an excellent reference and instruction book for all levels of knitters and crocheters. My copy sets prominent on my reference bookshelf. Review by Lydia F Borin |
