Book excerpt: Step-by-step techniques, beautiful lace knitting stitch patterns, and great projects to get you started. This easy-to-follow course in lace knitting will transform the complete beginner into an accomplished expert. Progress from simple eyelet lace to openwork stitching and intricate edgings as you develop the skill and confidence to create beautiful pieces of lace filigree. With step-by-step tuition and a preliminary section explaining all the essentials – yarn, needles, tension, techniques and how to read knitting charts – this guide could not be more accessible. All of the stitch swatches are clearly photographed and each stitch is provided in both written and chart form, so even novices can start right away. There are also 13 lovely projects to practise your newly acquired skills, including a baby blanket and slippers, an evening bag, a shrug and a jewellery purse. Each stitch pattern is illustrated in both fine and thicker yarns, so you can choose the look of the finished item. The Very Easy Guide to Lace Knitting will give you the skills and the inspiration to get started.