Introducing Traditional Bedfordshire Lace in 20 Lessons - Barbara Underwood

Publisher : Ruth Bean Publishers; Illustrated edition (1 Aug. 1993)
ISBN-10 : 0903585278
ISBN-13 : 978-0903585279

Introducing Traditional Bedfordshire Lace in 20 Lessons by Barbara Underwood
Considered a classic book to learn Bedfordshire lace, Barbara Underwood's book takes you through the key skills to take you from beginner to advanced intermediate.
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​Clearly illustrated throughout with both black and white photos and line drawings.

What works well?

• This book is very much aimed at the lacemaker who wants to learn Bedfordshire lace, but has no access to face to face teaching.
• Each lesson progressively increases the learner's experience in this lace
• The clear diagrams show how to complete the new skills in each lesson

Anything that we need to take into consideration?

• The book has a short section on equipment and techniques which also shows clear diagrams for a number of the terms and has a pattern marking explanation.
• Barbara uses the standard UK terminology for the techniques which allows you to understand the names used and cross reference in other books and online
• Whilst currently out of print, this book is often available from a number of lace suppliers as well online book sellers and eBay

What do other people say?
This book was reviewed on the gumnuts website
This book begins with a brief outline of Bedfordshire lace, including the Cluny connection.
There is a short section outlining the basics. Then 20 lessons, starting with the basic 9 pin edge though to a gorgeous floral bookmark. Some lessons have lots of bobbins for small medallion style pieces, while lessons 7 to 10 can be joined to make a ring pillow.
Other projects include round and square boarders, insertions and 3 bookmarks. The diagrams are clear and easy to follow, although I have found a couple of questions within the prickings.
The colour plate in the middle of the book provides a sumptuous taste of the included projects. At a workshop with Barbara, I was able to use the text as a reference point to complete a different project, having not managed the course beforehand. Well worth the effort.