In transit

 I'm on my way!

Do these have ARRR?

 

I remembered tatting these years ago. Couldn’t find that pair. So, I test tatted my pattern and created this pair:

I’ll be teaching this for the Shuttlebirds Tat Days 2023. I have my suitcases ready!

So, about reading patterns

 

worn earring around bead cap

I decided to retat a favorite pair of earrings. I’m teaching the pattern at Shuttlebirds (page 11 of this web page), so this pair needs a refresh. I found my pattern with my notes and found the thread and found the beads and findings. So far, so good. Well, the finding I used for the original set are too worn to reuse and no one markets that bead cap. So, I found a replacement.

The pattern consists of 5 rings and 5 chains. Simple. Tricky, but simple. After 3 tries, I have a set. Now to find the package of jump rings and wires……

Reading patterns

 

Today’s task is to prepare for teaching a class/workshop on reading patterns. I’ll be looking at how patterns have been published over the years. I’ll be pointing people to the Antique Pattern Library. How I make notes to follow as I tat a pattern will include browsing the tattered pieces of paper and a glance at mark-up on my tablet. Maybe even how to create a pattern from a finished piece of lace such as this mat.

I’m hoping there will be a student who is well-versed in basic Design Principles and Elements and such. I do not have a visual arts degree. If a student who has that training can add to discussions, it makes the class that much more enjoyable. Bottom line for me as a teacher here: create lace you love. Whether that means you tat free form, tat from verbal instructions, tat from vintage pattern notation, tat from diagrams, my hope is that you tat!

What a week!

 The most positive thing I can say about the last 10 days is now we know. I won’t bore you with details. Let it suffice to say that I was forced to take a week off.

I’ll be working through the class list for Shuttlebirds Tat Days the rest of this week. I would like to have samples tatted up to the tricky parts of the patterns. That takes time. But, I have time now…..because we know.