Customer Reviews

Old Lace and Linens Including Crochet: An Identification and Value Guide

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I MUST AGREE WITH THE FIRST TWO REVIEWS 100%. BUT I BOUGHT IT ANYWAY, TO ADD TO MY MANY OTHER BOOKS. THE BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT WAS THE PHOTOS. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ANYONE UNLESS THEY JUST WANT TO SKIM OVER IT AND ADD IT TO A COLLECTION THEY MAY HAVE.

That the author loves linens is obvious from her narratives. There are some tips on care and history that are worthwhile. Many of the identifications are misleading, and the prices quoted are most frequently inaccurate. The descriptions, although vague, may be a useful starting point for the novice or casual collector, I would not refer this to anyone as a definitive work, but it is useful as an entry level reference.

First 28 pages are well-written, lyrical descriptions but not terribly historically informative. While there is an extremely wide range of items shown, many photos are reproductions which lose much in the process.

Identification of types is very spotty with even the obvious (hardanger and filet) listed only as drawn work or 'beautifully crocheted corners'. Dating of items seemed fairly accurate but pricing was "not of this earth". Most dollar amounts could easily be halved and one collar on page 43 listed at $55-60 I purchased for $8 from a knowledgable dealer.

This book is useful as an addendum to the library of a serious collector. It is however, of little value to the novice or student because it lacks identifying criteria and the pictures are not high enough quality to decipher detail.