Lace Knit Shawls, Sweaters, Socks & Hats

October 1, 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

Copyright 2022 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 9, 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.