Ineke Kuiperij's new book of tatting patterns features designs for all four seasons of the year. The detailed photos and the diagrams are all black and white but the cover shows lovely full color photos of each of the ten projects.

For the holidays, happy occasions and other celebrations there are two 3-D hanging angels. They are constructed in a manner very similar to the chess pieces in her earlier book on the tatted chess set. The second angel pattern would be a great start for a new tatter while the first angel requires concentration. There are also two variations for hanging Easter Eggs. Both eggs are tatted in two pieces and then fastened together by running ribbon through the roles are around the center. An attractive method to give the 3-D effect.

My personal favorite is the lily and lily pad. The lily pad is composed of many split rings and long picots. The lily flower has four separate pieces nested together and stiffened in the upright position. Just lovely!

The set of the four seasons figurines is very cleverly done. The strip of tatting that forms the dress is the same pattern for all four figures with only the color of thread changed to reflect the season. With the exception of the hem and the collar which is unique for each season, i.e., daffodils, roses, autumn leaves and snow drops.

Although the text is in Dutch, there are abbreviations given in the front of the book which are in Dutch, German and English. This enables all of us to work these delightful patterns. Online tatting term equivalents are available if additional help is needed. The diagrams should be carefully studied before beginning the pattern. I would also recommend marking a path to climb from the center out or from row to row without cutting the thread.

As I have said before, Ineke is a master tatter and I highly recommend her books. This book I acquired for my personal tatting reference library. G. Seitz.

Please see the article on all of Ineke Kuiperij's books: