Tatting Patterns and Designs by Gun Blomqvist and Elwy Persson is one of the best pattern books published in the late 1960s. It starts with a historical synopsis which includes some wonderful pictures of ladies knotting from the 17th century, together with some exquisitely fine tatted handkerchiefs from around 1900. A section on basic techniques is included but is hardly necessary because this is not a book for the complete beginner. You need to understand how to tat and how to look at the pieces in order to interpret the instructions because no diagrams are provided and instructions are in the briefest form of notational writing.

The patterns start with a series of edgings which even in the early part of the book include some two shuttle work which for patterns published at this time was a real rarity. The next chapter contains a large selection of tatted motifs and snowflakes which are used to create a mobile, then we move on to larger mats and doilies created from simple edgings and motifs. There is also a pretty collar and two lovely tatted crosses. Again, although the chapter following on from the mobile is entitled Simple Patterns many of the designs are not that easy to make and will require some experience.

The final chapter contains patterns for a series of increasingly elaborate doilies which are mostly two shuttle work, and finally three bridal crowns.

Most of the patterns are very accurately written though one or two do have some problems with accuracy. However each piece is illustrated sufficiently clearly that it is possible to recreate it even with this difficulty and I have made most of the items in the book without any major problems. This is one of my all time favourite books on tatting, and I recommend it unreservedly.