I'm looking for suggestions on hiding thread ends when using finer threads. I am trying size 20 cotton when I have only used size size 10 before. I'm having a significantly more difficult time because I can't seem to fit the ends inside along with the core thread. Are there any techniques that might work better?
I'm getting the hang of tatting with a shuttle, but having some trouble with the joins and transitions. I tend to accidentally make lock joins where there should be regular joins, as well as loose tension at the joins. Also, my tension when transitioning from rings to chains is often too loose. Any suggestions?
With the joins, it’s helpful to keep in mind that you have an “up” thread (the thread that forms the stitches) and a “down” thread (the thread that forms the core). For standard joins you are essentially mimicking a stitch, even though it doesn’t look like it, so you want to keep the core thread consistent through this false stitch. In other words, your “down” thread is always going through a loop of your “up” thread for this join; both threads need to be involved. (On lock joins only one thread is involved.) This will become more muscle memory with practice as well.
As for the tension, your practice piece is actually looking pretty good! Just remember to really snug up the chains before beginning the next ring. Even if it feels like it’s pulling the chain out of shape a bit, you can adjust the shape after it’s been secured by the ring.
Hope that helps!
The Sakura pattern is a simple choker inspired by the delicate petals of cherry blossoms.
The pattern can be found in the shop here: https://www.learnshuttletatting.com/product-page/sakura-lace-cherry-blossom-choker-tatting-pattern
There are also a handful of pattern kits available here: https://www.learnshuttletatting.com/product-page/sakura-pattern-kit
Good news for those who need hands on learning - I've started booking in person classes again!
My next class scheduled will be April 24th and 25th in the Toledo area, and I'll be teaching both a Tatting level 1 and a Tatting level 2 class. Tatting 1 is for the absolute beginner, while Tatting 2 is for anyone who has the basics down but is ready for more! Tatting 2 classes are unstructured, meaning I work with each student one-on-one to meet them where ever they are at in their tatting journey.
For more information about each class and to register, you can visit the host shop's website here: https://www.vodshere.com/tatting
I've also added an events page: https://www.learnshuttletatting.com/event-list
P.S. Yes, I will travel for classes! Shops looking to host a class can email me at sparrow@sparrowspite.com
Novice Knotter
Novice Knotter
Are you splitting the tails before sewing them in? That will help if you haven't tried that! You can also try the back and forth method I talk about in the lessons; it works great for smaller threads especially.