How to Prepare to Tat

Tatting is the art of making knots in a continuous thread to form rings, ovals, and strings and, in the end, anything from delicate handkerchiefs to bookmarks.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Embroidery Scissors
• Tatting Needles
• Tatting Shuttles
• Tatting Thread
• Beeswax
• Bobbins
• Crochet Hooks
• Fabric Stiffeners
• Sewing Needles
• Tapestry Needles
• Threads

1. Hold the tatting shuttle in your right hand between your forefinger and thumb. Aim the point of the shuttle away from you.

2. Release a length of thread from the shuttle and wrap this thread end across the back side of your left hand (going away from you).

3. Continue by wrapping the thread around your fingers then back to your thumb, forming a circle of thread.

Tips & Warnings

• This circle on the left hand is called the "ring thread." The thread coming from the shuttle is called the "shuttle thread."
• Avoid working with a very long extension of thread - use just enough to go around your hand and about 12 inches over to the shuttle.