Hook tatting samples

 I’m enjoying exploring this new to me tool. I found out at the workshop that the tool was invented decades ago. I view the version marketed by Annie’s Attic as a knock off. But then, there are those who prefer Boyle crochet hooks to others, so maybe I just prefer Takashimabari tool.

The green sample is tatting in Eliza size 5 with the smallest hook in the set.

The pink sample is Cebelia size 30 using the same hook. I also tried out how to climb out using needle technique for split rings. It worked, but I still need lots more practice.

After I finish a session on the bench…….

Afterglow

I had fun!! So much Fun!!

Traveling wasn’t as stressful as I anticipated. I must have had an angel pushing the wheel chair when no one was looking. The campground was so peaceful and easy to relax with my shuttles. I met so many wonderful tatters! But, the real news:

hook tatted flower

I can now tat with a hook set! It’s a beautiful set. The instructions were so easy to follow. Taeko was very clear and helpful. She has so much energy and curiosity we got along fabulously! Here’s a flower I completed in class:

I probably could have completed more flowers, but I wanted to make sure I understood how to tat a chain and how to create other types of rings. I wish the class had been longer, but I had 4 other classes to attend….as teacher!

I’m glad to be home. Now to navigate all the details for getting my days organized!

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.