This is a book aimed at the beginner, and shows you how to make one type of lace called Torchon, which is the type usually recommended to start with. All the equipment associated with the hobby is described, and refreshingly it is all there in its least expensive form. You might well have much of it already, and you can make lace out of almost any type of thread or yarn, which certainly flies in the face of what I was taught. But this is a refreshingly modern type of book, and I was delighted to find that I could understand every word, which puts it way ahead of every other lace book I own or have seen. This is mainly due to an absence of the mystique surrounding this notoriously difficult craft, and the presence instead of lots of fairly large and very clear diagrams and photographs. The projects are attractive and either modern or timeless: bookmarks, a bag, cushion trim, shawl and scarf. They are inspired by the seasons, which adds a nice touch. I think I might not keep my other lacemaking books now, but get out my pillow and bobbins and maybe have a bit more success this time around. Very highly recommended.

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