Thursday, March 1, 2018

Book Report

I've been working on my Live-Loop cable book for what feels like forever, though really it's been less than a year. I wish I could say the end is in sight, but I'm not sure I've even reached the end of the beginning. There's a slowly growing pile of pretty projects completed, but many more to go. And after the designing, swatching, and crocheting of samples, come charting, pattern writing and revision, chapter writing, photography, layout.... (Whoever said "Writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint" was a very wise person.)

The process may be slow, but it's been fun so far, and I've learned all sorts of unexpected things along the way.

Like how to make circular cables:


And use I-cord as both foundation and edging for crochet:


And new (to me) non-slanting stitch combinations for working in the round:


And how single crochet in its various forms makes a beautiful background for Live-Loop cables:


A few of these discoveries are reserved for the book, but many of the others will be featured here on the blog in the months to come.

Stay tuned for an I-cord series in March!

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Have you ever participated in the making of a book? Any words of wisdom to share?

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24 comments:

  1. I can't begin to imagine all the work that goes behind the making of a book about crochet or knitting. I like seeing your colourful swatches here!

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    1. Thanks Sandra! I'm enjoying choosing yarns and colours I really like. :)

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  2. You're writing a book! I'm very impressed. Can't imagine the amount of work you're putting in.

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    1. Neither can I. Everything seems to be getting made at least three times over (because I'm a perfectionist). So far I've had one project that came together in less than a week. All the rest are taking several weeks each. But I'm keeping calm and crocheting on.... :)

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  3. Wow well done I'm really impressed you are one very clever lady. :) x

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  4. When can I pre-order this book because I'm going to!!

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    1. Wow, thank you for that! I don't know whether there will be pre-orders. I'm a little nervous about doing that in case of unexpected delays. But if I do decide to take them I'll be sure to post something here on the blog. :)

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  5. How can you do those things in Crochet? You are a marvel!

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    1. Well technically it's a kind of hybrid method - the cables are actually (looks around guiltily) little bits of knitting inserted into the crochet. But I'm trying to avoid the "k" word. :)
      Thanks TA!

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  6. I'm impressed with you writing a book! I have actually authored 2 cookbooks for the Daughters of the American Revolution. The first one I collaborated with ladies from around the world via our listserv email group! I illustrated the cover and another artist from Rome, Italy did the chapter covers. People sent family favorite recipes from all over the country and many other countries, then I did all the inputting of the recipes in the manuscript and all the graphic design for the whole book. What a job! ((hugs)), Teresa :-)

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    1. I knew you had been involved with books before, Teresa, but I couldn't remember just what. The cookbooks sound fascinating!
      I may have to consult you if I run into any graphic design problems. :)

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  7. Wow! You will set a new standard in the crochet world.

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  8. You are brilliant Sue. Look at all those amazing stitches, patterns and textures. Good luck!

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  9. Oh I cannot wait for your book!!!! And it doesn't surprise me because you are amazing, I have learned so much with you. Please enjoy the making of the book, is like watching a son or daughter grow don't you think?
    Abrazos!

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  10. You are a wonder. Circular crocheted cables!!

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    1. Thanks Kathy! I found the technique on a knitting blog, to give credit where credit is due. :)

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  11. Those are tantalizing photos! Love the twisted cable especially.

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  12. You are so talented, and always design such lovely things. I know your book will be awesome. :)

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