Jan Messent's Wool 'n Magic

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

A visual delight, this book by Jan Messent ( Have You Any Wool? ) focuses on combining knitting and crochet with other forms of stitchery for rich effects. The author, who lectures to embroidery guilds and exhibits throughout Great Britain, aims to inspire the more advanced needleworker to try unconventional projects. As she attests, the book is intended for ``brave spirits and genuinely creative people.'' Wonderful exercises, such as wrapping yarns around cardboard strips to simulate the colors in a painting, will guide needleworkers to develop their own sense of color. Using a variety of techniques and yarns, Messent pours out ideas for building up texture, such as changing direction in mid-pattern, intentionally dropping stitches and stuffing or smocking fabric. Over 75 color photographs showcase lush, complex pieces, mainly Messent's and probably impossible to copy, but glorious fun. Drawings augment text to coach the reader in constructing wall-hangings, soft sculptures and garments. But step-by-step instructions are generally avoided, further inducing readers to work their own magic. (May)