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Tapestry Crochet by Carol Ventura (formerly Carol
Norton) Carol Ventura, PhD, has authored a series of tapestry crochet books and this book was her first. She has traveled extensively throughout the world and studied textiles during her excursions. While serving with the Peace Corp in Guatemala, Carol was introduced to the art of tapestry crochet. She immersed herself in the craft, gained knowledge of the culture, history and symbolism combined in these tapestries. When she returned home, Carol brought this craft to the US by teaching classes and creating tapestry bags. She embraced the folk motifs and created her own designs. Her book evolved from this experience. There are complete step by step instructions and illustrations for both right-hand and left-hand people. The illustrations are very clear and easy to follow. There are blank graphs for you to create your own patterns. The projects include beautiful baskets, wall-hanging tapestries, change purses, eyeglass cases, a pillow and clock faces. Various motifs are charted to follow when making these items. The techniques include working in the round and in rows, forming two and three dimensional tapestry art. Many of the motifs are steeped in history and others contemporary. It is interesting that the graphs on pages 88 and 89, and the photo on page 87; ‘Someday’ tapestry, is reminiscent of fractals in chaos theory. You will find tapestry crochet easy to accomplish and you will not have to keep changing threads and having hanging loose thread at the back of your work. Both sides will look finished as you go. Tapestry Crochet should be on a prominent bookshelf every crocheter’s library. |
