Guest Author - Beverly Elrod
Much discussion has come up on what different projects can be done with tatting. There are those who are the ‘doily’ tatters, the ‘note card’ tatters, the ‘lace/edging’ tatters, ‘baby bonnet and booties’ tatters, etc. The important thing is that there’s no right or wrong when it comes to creativity. We’ve even seen where crafters have combined various skills.
Today, I’d like to get into a ‘stretch of the imagination’. Ok, so we know that we can combine our tatting with other needlework. And, we know that we can combine our tatting with sewing; such as creating lace for a bridal veil or trimming a dress, dress jacket, short hem and what-not. But, how about we put our imaginations to work. I’ve often said that if you can think it, it can be done. So, today I’m going to give you some not-so-usual ideas of tatting usage.
1. Painting a mini box for storing knick-knacks? How about adding a tatted trim to show off your talent?
2. Are you multi-talanted with the needles/hooks and like to make purses? Add a splash of tatting dimension with a flower or tatted beaded butterfly.
3. Using some craft glue you can add a colored trim to your shelves. You can use a fabric stiffener to soak it and then apply to your shelve edges. This will really dress up shelves without doors and add a ‘country look’ to any kitchen or entry nook.
4. For those who create their own items for gift giving, just ask yourself how a piece of tatting might dress up your creation; include box purses, bible cases, totes, etc.
The more gifted a person is with various skills, the more they might be open to trying something entirely different than normal. The important thing is, no matter what your skills are or the level of your skill, don’t be afraid to try something different. In doing so, you may design the next big hit that everyone will be wanting to copy. But, more importantly, you’ll be making something that you can either keep for a momento of earlier tatting days or you’ll be passing something on to a friend or relative who’ll treasure your skills, for years to come, each time they gaze upon the wonderful gift you’ve created and shared with them.
And, who knows, by sharing your tatted gift, you may find others who’ll be interested in learning how to tat. You can be one of many interested in helping to keep the art of tatting alive and well in your part of the world.
