what I’m hearing is, buy lacemaking books published no later than 2022
Independent craft shops value the community of makers, designers, and the skills. Which means there is a level of quality control built in to their selection of what to carry. I can’t speak to lace making materials but this is also becoming an issue in crochet, knitting, and quilting.
Shopping local is awesome but if you don’t have a good local craft shop, most have websites you can order from and phone/email that you can get assistance.
The experience and expertise they offer is absolutely worth paying slightly more for an item. (Plus fewer returns because you aren’t receiving AI bullshit).
Also, your local library is a good resource for craft publications
