All about tweed

I received a copy of the book Tweed by Nancy J.  Thomas to review for you...so here goes!

The book starts out with a history of tweed fabrics and tweed yarns, how they got started, and how the tradition has carried over into present day.  The author also covers the basics of different types of processes that are used to make wool into tweed yarn and some of the technical terms you might find while looking for tweedy yarns.

Since tweed yarn is traditionally a rustic yarn (so the author says) and hence something that won't necessarily work in any pattern, Ms. Thomas gives basic guidelines for using tweed successfully and also includes a stitch guide to help you along the way if you are still unsure.

There are 21 patterns in the book, in chapters designated from beginner to advanced, but personally I didn't find any of the projects in the advanced section intimidating, so no matter what your skill level you should be able to pick and choose fairly freely.  There are a number of attractive cabled sweaters in this book as well as a cabled sampler afghan, so those of us who are cable lovers will also enjoy these patterns.

If you are someone who is drawn to tweed yarns this is definitely a book to check out.  I think for me it's more of an idea book, there are definitely some inspiring patterns in there, but the biggest impact for me was understanding what I can do with tweed yarns - I've always veered away from them b/c I just wasn't sure what patterns they would work with.   

Comments

[Carol]

Sounds like an interesting book. Thanks for the review!

[Jocelyn]

That does sound interesting. I'll have to check it out the next time I'm at a bookstore.