Tatting Cheatsheet
Tatting Types
| Type | Description | Tools Used | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shuttle Tatting | Uses a shuttle to create knots | Tatting shuttle, thread | Beginner to advanced |
| Needle Tatting | Uses a needle to form loops and knots | Tatting needle, thread | Beginner to intermediate |
Essential Tatting Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tatting Shuttle | Holds and guides thread | Plastic, metal, or wood |
| Tatting Needles | For needle tatting | Long, blunt, various sizes |
| Thread | Creates lacework | Cotton, mercerized cotton, silk |
| Scissors | Cutting thread | Small and sharp preferred |
| Picot Gauge | Measures picot sizes | Helps create uniform loops |
| Thread Conditioner | Prevents tangling and fraying | Optional but useful |
Common Tatting Terms
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Double Stitch (DS) | Basic knot, made of two half-hitches |
| Picot | Small loop between stitches used for decoration or joining |
| Chain | Series of double stitches connected by picots or joins |
| Ring | Circular motif made by double stitches and picots |
| Join | Connecting picots from different rings or chains |
| Split Stitch | Technique to prevent puckering at joins |
| Reverse Work | Flipping work to tat on the opposite side |
Basic Tatting Techniques
| Technique | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Making Rings | Create circular motifs with DS and picots | Keep even tension |
| Forming Chains | Link double stitches with joins or picots | Use shuttle or needle method |
| Joining Picots | Connect motifs or chains through picots | Use crochet hook or shuttle |
| Adding Picots | Insert small loops for decoration or joining | Measure with picot gauge |
| Reverse Work | Flip work to continue tatting on the other side | Maintain stitch count |
Thread Types & Sizes
| Thread Type | Size Range (Tex/Denier) | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton Mercerized | 10 to 80 (finer) | Durable, smooth tatting |
| Linen Thread | Varies | Traditional, strong lace |
| Silk Thread | Fine | Luxury projects, delicate lace |
| Polyester Thread | Various | Durable, colourfast |
| Specialty Threads | Metallic, variegated | Decorative effects |
Common Projects & Skill Levels
| Project | Description | Skill Level | Time Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Rings | Basic circular motifs | Beginner | 30 min - 1 hour |
| Edging | Decorative lace border | Beginner-Intermediate | 1-3 hours |
| Motif Joining | Joining multiple rings/chains | Intermediate | 2-5 hours |
| Doilies | Large, intricate lace pieces | Advanced | Several days |
| Jewelry | Earrings, necklaces | Intermediate-Advanced | 2-6 hours |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Loose Picots | Uneven tension | Maintain consistent tension |
| Puckered Joins | Tight joins or wrong stitch | Use split stitch technique |
| Twisted Rings | Improper stitching | Practice uniform double stitches |
| Thread Tangling | Thread too long or unconditioned | Use thread conditioner, keep shorter lengths |
| Difficulty Joining | Picots too small or uneven | Use picot gauge, adjust size |
Care & Storage of Tatting Lace
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Hand wash gently | Use mild detergent, cool water |
| Dry flat | Avoid stretching or wrinkling |
| Store flat or rolled | Prevent creases and damage |
| Avoid direct sunlight | Prevent thread fading |
| Use acid-free tissue | Protect vintage or delicate lace |
Learning Resources
| Resource Type | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Books | “The Complete Book of Tatting” by Jane Eborall | Great beginner to advanced resource |
| Video Tutorials | YouTube channels and online courses | Step-by-step visual guides |
| Patterns | Free and paid downloadable patterns | Practice and inspiration |
| Tatting Groups | Online forums and local clubs | Community support and sharing |