Discover the Art of Tatting with Beginner Kits, Patterns, and Supplies

The Joys of Tatting

Tatting is a classic fiber art that many crafters find utterly addictive. This delicate lace is made using a shuttle and thread to create intricate knots and loops. While tatting may look complicated to learn, it's easy to pick up the basics. With practice, you can create beautiful lace edgings, doilies, jewelry, and more. A tatting kit makes it simple to get started with this rewarding hobby.

Getting Started with a Tatting Kit

Tatting kits provide all the essential supplies so beginners can learn the technique. They come with detailed instructions walking you through the steps of making basic rings, chains, and joins. Kits include the two main tools you need: a tatting shuttle and thread.

Shuttles have a point on one end to weave the thread. On the other end, a small bobbin winds the thread. Quality plastic or wooden shuttles allow the thread to unwind smoothly. Metal shuttles can damage the thread over time.

Cotton crochet thread is ideal for tatting since it has some stretch and sheen when finished. Mercerized cotton like size 10 tatting thread makes crisp, durable lace. The thread should be a solid color to start. Variegated threads hide mistakes but aren't great for learning.

The kit will have a practice ring and maybe a starter pattern for a bookmark or jewelry. This gives you ideas for simple projects to build skills. Soon you'll be ready for more advanced tatting patterns.

Tatting Supplies for Ongoing Projects

Once you've learned the basics, there are a few other handy supplies to continue your tatting endeavors. These include:

• Thread in different weights and colors
• Extra shuttles
• Tatting pattern books or printable patterns
• Finishing supplies like beads, findings, and needle/thread
• Tatting needles for weaving in thread ends
• Bobbins for winding larger amounts of thread
• Scissors for trimming thread ends
• Tatting clips or thread holder

It's amazing what can be made with just a shuttle, thread, and creativity. However, the right accessories make tatting easier and expand the possibilities.

Tatting Project Ideas

Here are some beginner-friendly projects to try with your new tatting skills:

• Jewelry: Tatted earrings, necklaces, and bracelets make unique accessories. Add beads for color and sparkle.
• Edgings: Lace up handkerchiefs, scarves, pillowcases, and more with delicate tatted edges.
• Ornaments: Mini motifs make beautiful Christmas tree decorations.
• Bookmarks: Simple tatted stripes or chains dress up any book.
• Doilies: Small doilies can accent dressers, tea sets, and holiday decor.
• Snowflakes: Create intricate snowflake designs to hang in windows.
• Angels: Form cherubic angel ornaments using white or metallic thread.

Take inspiration from nature, jewelry, holidays, and more. Combine tatting with other crafts like embroidery or beading for even more options.

The Benefits of Tatting

While tatting may seem old-fashioned, its benefits appeal to all generations:

• Portability: Tatting supplies take up little space so you can tat anywhere.
• Economical: After the initial kit, thread is the only supply you need to buy.
• Versatile: Make everything from home decor to fashion accessories.
• Creative: Follow patterns or design your own lace motifs.
• Calming: The repetitive knotting motions provide stress relief.
• Satisfying: Seeing your handmade lace creations finished is rewarding.
• Timeless: Tatting has been a treasured hobby for centuries.

Tatting allows you to produce delicate lace wherever you go. As you learn, watch your skills blossom. It provides creative satisfaction along with a sense of timeless heritage.

Finding Inspiration for Tatting Projects

Looking for fresh inspiration for your tatting? Here are some ideas:

• Browse tatting books and magazines for patterns
• Join online tatting groups to see what others are working on
• Look at images of antique lace for edging designs to recreate
• Study flowers, snowflakes and other natural shapes
• Flip through bridal magazines for veil and gown inspiration
• Search jewelry catalogs for earring and necklace designs
• Look at heirloom doilies and table runners for traditional motifs
• Let colors and textures in your home guide color choices

Keeping photos, drawings, or swatches of inspiring patterns, textures, and designs helps spark ideas. When you feel stuck, review them to get motivated for your next project.

Tatting Supplies for Beginners

Ready to try tatting for yourself? Here are some recommended supplies to get started:

Tatting Shuttle

A good quality shuttle ensures smooth threading. Options include:

• Plastic - lightweight and inexpensive but can crack over time
• Wood - provides nice weight and handfeel, pricier option
• Metal - durable with a smooth finish, can be hard on thread

Look for a shuttle with rounded ends to protect thread from snagging.

Tatting Thread

Quality thread helps produce even, attractive lace. Good choices:

• Mercerized cotton: provides sheen and durability
• Crochet thread: has slight stretch and comes in many colors
• Fine silk: for very delicate, luminous tatting

Start with a light solid color like white, ecru, or pale blue. Darker or variegated threads hide mistakes.

Tatting Needles

Tatting needles have a sharp point on one end and a hole on the other. They allow you to neatly finish lace and hide knot ends.

Pattern Book

A beginner tatting book gives step-by-step instructions for basic techniques. Look for patterns graded from easy to more challenging.

Following patterns helps perfect the basics. Later you can design your own creations.

Extra Bobbins

Spare bobbins make winding and storing threads a breeze. They keep your threads organized and tangle-free.

With quality supplies, you'll be ready to tat beautiful creations in no time. Don't be intimidated by tatting's reputation for difficulty - with a little practice, you'll get the hang of it. Have fun making delicate lace to treasure for years to come!

FAQs

What is tatting?

Tatting is a technique for making lace using a simple shuttle wound with thread. It involves forming knots and loops to create intricate designs.

What supplies do I need to tat?

The basic tatting supplies are a shuttle, tatting thread, and a pattern book. Other helpful tools include needles, extra bobbins, thread holder, scissors, and beads for embellishing.

How long does it take to learn tatting?

You can learn the basics of tatting in a few hours with a starter kit. But becoming skilled at making intricate designs takes practice. Allow yourself time to perfect your technique.

What weights of thread work for tatting?

Size 10 crochet cotton is ideal thread for beginners. You can also use finer threads like size 20-80 for delicate designs. Heavier pearl cotton works for larger pieces.

What can you make with tatting?

Tatting is very versatile! You can make jewelry, doilies, snowflakes, lace edging, embellishments, and much more. It's a great hobby for creating unique handmade items.