Tatting

Tatting is a form of lace making which uses a combination of knots and loops to create a pattern. This form of lace is well noted for its durability, as well as its beauty. Many believe that tatting originates from coxcombing, a form of decorative knot work used on board ships and by sailors to create gifts for their port side loved ones. However there is no documentation of the exact origins of tatting and its origins can only be traced back to the eighteen hundreds.

While tatting patterns range in difficulty levels, the process is generally slow going and requires a certain level of concentration. Tatting takes a great deal of patients and as such, one should carefully consider the time and effort requirements prior to taking up tatting. Also, materials used for tatting range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite pricey; the level of quality varies as the price increases, but quality pieces can be created from nearly any thread if the crafter takes their time and is careful.

There are three types of tatting: shuttle, needle, and crotatting. Shuttle tatting is the original form of tatting and vintage shuttles can easily be found to recreate vintage patterns. Needle tatting can be used to produce very similar finished works to the traditional shuttle tatting. Crotatting can also produce similar results. Perhaps the best tips one can be given are to always be patient and go slowly, assuring your work is in accordance with the pattern. Be sure that you understand the pattern prior to beginning a project and be sure to follow all instructions exactly and to always make sure your knots are securely and neatly tied.