Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

DORIS CHAN SCORES AGAIN!

by

Crochet Lace Innovations by Doris Chan

I really wanted the picture of the cover of Doris Chan’s latest book to be large enough so you could see  the lovely lace design.  This is indicative of the beautiful designs Doris has created for us!  This same design also appears as a dress in the book.  There are 20 designs in this book, incorporating a variety of crochet techniques, including broomstick, hairpin, tunisian, and Doris’ signature exploded lace.

I have yet to give hairpin lace a serious try – but the cap sleeve vest pattern in this book makes me want to go for it!  Tunisian has become a well-used technique in my crochet repertoire, although I’m still painfully slow at it.  And the whole concept of using doily patterns to make full size garments is very enchanting.

This book contains a hairpin lace tutorial that is thorough and well illustrated.  Same for tunisian.  All the designs are shown in full color pictures with both text and schematics.  In addition, Doris gives a full page of ‘Tips for Success’ for each technique – sorta like having the designer right there with  you while you’re crocheting.

Yarns in this book tend to be natural fibers, wool and silk.  Color choices are both current and classic.  Project difficulty ranges from intermediate beginner to experienced crocheter.  Scarf patterns are great ‘beginner’ projects to give the technique a test drive.  Then, a more complex pattern follows to encourage the crocheter to stretch the limits.

While every garment crochet book contains scarves, cardigans, and skirts, you’ll look far and wide to find a scarf as visually complex as the Siona Stole on page 37.  It’s made in cream and Celery green bamboo wool in strips of hairpin lace.  The visual impact is simply stunning!

This book is definitely a keeper.

BOOK STATS:

Potter Craft Books, 2010

144 pages

ISBN:  9780307463821

List price is $21.99 USD

Comments

  1. ooh…I so want this…need to work it into the budget. thanks for the review.

  2. I have your book but i have some problem with the size also with the pattern. maybe somebudy can help me?
    I am doin”Bozina Dress” page 96
    Thanke You
    Orit cohen

  3. Doris Chan has a blog but she has this posted there:
    I do not provide pattern support for my designs here on this blog. Please join me and the posse at Ravelry.com, and post your questions on the forum dedicated to my designs, Doris Chan: Everyday Crochet. Thanks.

    So, I suggest you take your specific questions to Ravelry.com. There are so many helpful crocheters on their forums. I’m sure you’ll find the help you need there.
    jd

Have you read?

Lightweight Lacy Crochet Tee Pattern That’s Perfect for Layering

Some crochet garments look beautiful on the hanger but feel awkward to wear. This Lacy Crochet Tee from Lana Grossa is not one of those pieces. It’s light, breathable, and very much designed to be worn — the kind of handmade top that slips easily into your everyday wardrobe without feeling “too precious.”

What immediately stands out is the openness of the stitch pattern. It has that airy, lacy feel that works so well for warmer weather or for layering over a tank or dress. This isn’t a heavy, structured garment; it’s soft and fluid, with just enough texture to make it interesting while still letting the yarn shine.

From a making point of view, this tee is a really enjoyable project if you like crochet that feels calm and rhythmic. The lace pattern keeps your hands engaged without constant counting or frustration, which makes it perfect for evening crochet or quiet weekend sessions. It’s also very satisfying watching the fabric grow — those lacy stitches really show progress quickly.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate crochet. You don’t need advanced shaping skills, but being comfortable with stitch patterns and keeping even tension will make the process much more enjoyable. If you’ve been wanting to dip your toe into wearable crochet without tackling a full sweater, this is a great place to start.

What I really appreciate about this pattern is how versatile it is. Change the colour and fibre and it can feel casual and beachy or clean and modern. It’s the kind of tee you’ll reach for again and again, especially when you want something handmade that still feels light and effortless.

If you enjoy crochet garments that are wearable, practical, and quietly stylish, this lacy tee is a lovely pattern to have in your collection.