Foreign Language Book Reviews
I recently posted a book review of a Japanese Language tatting pattern book.
As I mentioned then, the many diagrams are in both black and color and extremely very clear. And, the double stitch count is easy to see. But some of the diagram pages are slightly crowded. As an experienced tatter I can look at the lace and at the diagram and recreate the pattern without much difficulty. I have often said that with the photo and the diagram with numbered double stitch count any tatters could master the pattern.
For example:
As a collector of tatting books as well as a tatter I am pleased to see new books. My critique of a book is usually a gentle one in hope that it will help the designer improve and acquire a wider audience. This is particularly true of non English language books. These books might be stuffed with full color patterns and diagrams from cover to cover, beautifully and artistically photographed, but many tatters are reluctant to purchase (imported books are usually expensive) for fear they will not be able to tat the patterns.
Sarah W. wrote to tell me her concerns about such books:
"Hey Georgia, I just saw your book review and wanted to share a couple of my thoughts. I recently purchased this beautifully photographed book. But I think it is the least successful of them many Japanese books I have purchased. There just doesn't seem to be enough explanation to complete some projects. And there are several diagrams that are completely missing stitch counts - for example - project 30 (bouquet), and project 55 (necklace). There may be more diagrams missing stitch counts, those are just the projects I remember.
I plan to keep this book because the designs are inspiring, but I am disappointed in it's technical execution. I think this book needs some editing and to be re-published. Sorry to be critical. Just wanted other tatters to know before spending US$.
Thank you for all your wonderful articles and reviews! I look forward to and read every one."
I appreciate your comments Sarah and I will try to look closer at the books I review.
I want all tatters to know also, that if you are in need of help translating or rewriting patterns in your language, there are many tatters online willing to help. For help just email me through the comment form:
https://www.bellaonline.com/about/tatting
Your comments are most welcome. Happy Tatting
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