Tatting, Shuttles, and Hand Dyed Threads

New venture for Ladyshuttlemaker OR my newest shuttle

Silk Hand Dyed Threads from LadyShuttleMaker (colors given in Text)

Hand-Dyed Threads from TATSKOOL (colors in text)
More from TATSKOOL wound on EZ Bobs

COLORS: Bottom to top; Vanilla Sky (40); Rusty Red from Bracken Crunch; Bracken Crunch (20); Key Lime (40); Chocolate Sauce (40); also a spool of Raspberry Ripple in 40. (not shown)

Returned to Sheep May Safely Graze and completed the Trellis portion in silk threads; and, moved on to the VIOLAS. I did one Viola yesterday after reading the instructions repeatedly, and looking at the diagram; but, I hit a snag in the next to last part of the instruction So, as is my wont, I sent out an SOS to Karey S. (since it is her design). I looked at the visual and I don't see a join where the pattern calls for a join. It is one of those, "What do I join to? If any of you have tatted Sheep and can tell me about that section 6 + 6 followed by a CH 8 (then goes back to the beginning), let me know what in the world you joined TO. LOL The one try I made ended up 'floating' ~ obviously I did something wrong! I'm loath to continue because I'm using HDT (choc raspberry by TatSkool)

So excited, LadyShuttleMaker sent my new HDT ~ all silk! The colors: 2 skeins each are: Brown Rose and Wildflowers; 1 skein, Bright Green (which really is a pleasant green), and 3 skeins of Off White. Very exited about the off white as it is perfect for the Sheep marching around the outside of the doily; and, very glad I bought 3 skeins.

Plus, the cutest, sterling silver shuttle, about the size of a small clover shuttle. (Noticed that I should have flipped the photo, so Sherry's card could be read; but, you get the idea) I believe it will be great for finer threads from 50 up! I don't normally tat with metal shuttles (although I have at least five very old ones; and one vintage sterling), but I will certainly tat with this one and see how it goes! Decided to buy it because it will be such a great addition to my collection. Have become quite picky about the collection and am limiting my collectibles to pro-to types and 'new' designs ~ like the Pop a Bobbin from Sally's DH. (which I'm looking forward to using).

HDT Addiction: Threads from TATSKOOL in Ireland: In size 40: Rainbow Brite, Antique Bronze, Choco Raspberry: Size 50 Raspberry Ripple, and in 20 Raspberry Sorbet ( I reordered some colors I previously had ordered because I really liked them). The colors on the EZ bobs are also new to my thread stash.

TIA DAY SIX

DAY 6 of TIAS

I was looking at all the TIAS that had come in and I was blown away by the even rings and stitches in Martha Ess' creation. I blew it up, just so I could see how it would be worked by an advanced tatter. I so admire the advanced tatters work.

Could not find the peach thread for the life of me but had this color handy. I need to find the tag so I can share whose and what color it is! I know it's HDT…but I don't want to call it the wrong color name or creator. However I did find my little bag of 'eyes' that I'd ordered. They are so handy for critters. I have them in two sizes. I have been a little scattered this week.

I'm feeling some melancholy at the passing of a wonderful designer and tatter, Mary Konier.

After pondering upon her works and life, I plan to share more with you about Mrs. Konier.

Her funeral is January 22nd and I think it would be wonderful if all the tatters who have been influenced by her life's work would share on their blog.

If you have not yet applied and joined Ring of Tatters; I encourage you to do so. Their 4-colour book of patterns and articles that is published is well worth the dues. They become a treasure on your book shelf; and, many of Mary's patterns have been featured.

TOMORROW, TOMORROW . . . .

T. I. A. on Jane Eborall's, "Tat it and See" is promised on January 2.

I can hardly wait to begin! Now to find an empty shuttle. I finished all my UFO's for last year and have begun 3 projects; but, with the doily project I pre wound various colors so I could ride the wave of energy; well, I might catch one! So I shall have to find some empty shuttles for the T. I. A.

Not a resolution maker, so no thoughts on that subject. I haven't set any real goals. I'm not from the generation of 'living in the moment' BUT at the moment I seem to be doing that very thing. I think I may be surprised that I am actually here greeting 2010 ~ seems I have time to finish a TIA and a few patterns. I take it from day to day ~ living in the moment.

Check my list of favorite blogs at the right. The TIA link is the very first one.

http://tatitandsee.blogspot.com/

NEWS FOR NOVEMBER: ART SHOW, TATTING, NEW BOOKS

Loyal, Bev (tatting) and Rebekah at her BFA Senior Awards Show on November 7, '09 ~ WNMU

Grandma's communicating with love ~ Luz Melendez and Beverly June ~
I so wish I could speak Spanish!

Graphic Below: is from Penniwig's Blog. I'm also addicted to her lovely, light-weight earrings! Perfect stocking stuffer if I could actually send a pair away! LOL This scene looks similar to an area just down the ridge from our home. There is a dry creek bed (has water during winter run off or thunder storms) and it is lined with Cottonwood and a variety of annuals. When the sun sets in the west and one is driving east ~ the light plays on the leaves and it is just beautiful. I noticed it particularly, last Saturday, when we drove home from Rebekah's BFA, Gallery Show of her latest 'soft-focus' work. Check out her blog url from the list on the right; as, she has new work up on her site. She did a fine presentation and those in attendance seemed to enjoy her talk as well as her fine art photographs.

The Artists put on a Tea with lemon bars, tiny sandwiches and other goodies; then, opened the Gallery doors for the attendees. This was followed by the two presentations from BFA Senior Students. Rebekah did a good job of giving a brief history of how she became interested in art, learning to draw; and, later why she turned to fine art photography. She explained the dark room color process (they don't teach that at Western New Mexico) Most of what she actually learned of her craft came by way of Yuba College and her mentor/Professor Rick Murai. I was surprised and alarmed by an early slide which was a photo of ME. She credits me for teaching her all of the basics of art. I gave her a 'fat' pencil when she was a toddler and encouraged her to draw outside the lines. She was a very busy little girl and so I gave her the task of drawing single blades of grass, to slow her up and to teach her to 'see.' She graduated to a sketch book and an early drawing book of mine that taught perspective and forms. She began taking photo classes so she could photograph scenes that she later painted. She learned that she could cut out the middle step and compose art pieces with a lens!

Rick M. has taught 3 generations of Davis women; myself, my late daughter Lori Elayne and Rebekah. Lori was very gifted in this area also; but, as with most things she was not willing to be devoted to the work of the art. Partly because everything came so easily to her, that she soon became bored.

Rebekah had the first large gallery room, followed by a mid-sized room housing another student who did water colors and print making (graphic flowers); and, the largest, back room held the other two artists ceramics and small paintings. Rebekah sold one of her large format fine art photos called, "Lovely Lady." She calls it that since it was taken in Paris and reminded her of her stage work in Le Miz (high school); when, as well as understudy for Cossette, she was a ' lovely lady.' This work was very different from her former pieces and quite large!

I ordered some new threads from DS9Deigns and HandyHands. Also a couple of books; namely, Debbie Munoz, "Snowflake Roses" and Pam Palmer's "Tatting Treats Two". So many of my books are now out of print, or the prices have gotten so dear, or the book won't be re printed that I've been picking up those books that were on my list this past two years. Because of that I also bought 2 of the "Sampler" tatting books with a nice selection of Motif; but, the patterns are all written out long style ~ so will have to rewrite them to a shorter version or I'll get totally lost in the paragraphs! I've put those back for later in the year. I was browsing through Abebooks.com and saw some great buys; there was even a copy of Pam Palmer's 12 Days of Christmas, which one just doesn't find that easily. Mine was found by Sue Hanson in the UK and Patti Duff sent it to me.

I continue to tat Sheep May Safely Graze and have completed the 3 rosettes and the surrounding leaves. I also finished Pam's Christmas tree with beads for a Holiday card, and am on the second round of a Snowflake Rose in snowy white Lizbeth thread. Trying to get my Christmas tatting done for exchanges and special gifts to friends; and, to take a break from the larger project.

My thread from LadyShuttleMaker (it is a red ~ but like an old fashioned 'ashes of roses' kind of red) and one of her neat hook pens (Sunflower) arrived. The pen is so nice and flat as a bookmark that it fits in the small Rose Snowflake's booklet. I also received some new threads from Yarnplayer; and, Pamela Meyers' thread Antique Bronze, and Rasp. Sorbet, which I really like. I should take pictures; a lovely variety of colors. I'm choosing more solids of late that will work with some of the variegated threads. From HH and DS9Designs were mostly Valdini in dark greens (Christmas), a soft green that I admired, and a nice creamy color (Anchor) for the Sheep, and some Olympus (I didn't want to tat white nor ecru sheep). I bought a few balls of Lisbeth to put into Secret Santa and exchange boxes; so not telling those colors. LOL I'm tatting with a lot more size 40 thread and using 20 less; but, I have a huge stash of size 20 threads in Flora.

Vacation Bound!

Sutter Buttes ~ near Yuba City, California

For 34 + years the view from our ranch was The Sutter Buttes. We will be visiting daughter in nearby Sacramento for the month of June; and, visiting our friends who live near the Buttes. The Buttes are open at various times for Hiking, Biking, and Horseback riding groups. Also, Yuba College (JC) has treks for photographers, and students taking Geology classes. A favorite of mine was to take a 'quick' picnic and drive around the base...parking at an area view point.

The foreground is a rice field (paddy). Rice, Peaches, Plums and beef cattle being the main products of this area of Northern California. A lot of rice and miles of orchards. Yuba City has a population of about 80,000 + and is only 45 minutes from Sacramento. It is a nice place to raise a family with diverse cultural and ethnic population; good, family-oriented churches, cultural offerings: The Prune Festival, Annual Punjab parade and festivals, Bo Kai Parade (Chinese), the PrCA Rodeo, and Scottish Highland games. Oz Fest is held at the big amphitheater complex in Yuba County, across the Feather River.

While we won't be taking in any of the cultural events, I will be visiting with my daughters, perhaps a bass boat fishing expedition on the Delta, or even attending a River Cats game!

Mostly I'm looking forward to ~ Grass! Green Grass is scarce in the high desert with the cost of water...but my daughter has a lovely back yard with a Koi pond and pergola hanging with grape vines and plenty of green grass. Mostly, I think, I will be tatting; and, perhaps meeting other Sacramento area tatters if there is time. Just eating at our favorite restaurants will be a treat! I've heard rumors there may be a grandson or two around ~ and since Bekah is in the area ~ I'm sure I will see her on my birthday! This is a combination business/vacation trip.

Excitement nearer our present home includes armed security guards patrolling the perimeters of our property while we are gone. Seems there have been threats against our nearest neighbors (we share a low rock wall) because of the Copper Mines closing or laying off work force. The company has hired a security force to protect those in management ~ including our neighbor's family. It is surreal; like something from a TV program! It is worrisome for the neighbor, of course, but a curiosity up here on the ridge. They are a lovely family and I pray no harm comes to them!

I posted a copy of a card I made from a Practice Piece at the right side bar. I'm also working on Jane Eborall's, Funky Monkey and a couple of other projects; at least two butterflies (Including another Georgette's Butterfly, now that I have the complete instructions on how to do the 2 antennae in Victorian sets, using two shuttles that lead to a split ring! . . . and I must at least begin my first doily. After looking at Beatrice..it may be a second doily...as I want to tat the "Sheep May Safely Graze" for a daughter, if I can collect the thread size and colors and get them packed. I completed my UFO's, including the counted x-stitch piece for my cousin! I have less than 40 motif to go on the table runner; it should be completed by BB's birthday. Before I leave, there are a couple of envelopes and a box that I would like to get in the mail; but, that's rather dependent upon my DH who is my postal person. There should be more tatting posted by July!

The Shuttle Shop is Back!

SHUTTLES? Did someone say Chris and Erin Hinton? Did you know The Shuttle Shop is back and up on line? Lots of new and old favorites! Check it out!

http://www.theshuttleshop.com/

pictured is just one of the types of shuttles available.

Now I have to decide? Biggie? Ivory inlay; Rose, Bunny, Cat? Classic, heart style? Choice of wood? Or one of the many choices of art to be inscribed? Decisions, Decisions.....

To Market, to Market, to buy a . . .

ALERT! PIECEWORK Magazine May/June will be the annual LACE issue. There is sure to be some tatting. Their current contest is a brooch contest and the deadline is April 1, 2009.
Details at: www.pieceworkmagazine.com

Busy, busy. . .I've been tatting more and on the laptop less; but, today was a day out of the house (two this week, I'm on a roll) and off to the 'big city' of Las Cruces (grin). DH took me to Hobby Lobby first where we spent at least two hours....seriously. And I managed, once again, to stimulate the encomomy with the better part of a hundred dollar bill. However, we only go to Cruces about twice a year....so DH said my purchases were not extravagent. He kept finding things he just thought I needed! So, I'm set for my Secret Sister at Church with Easter surprises, and can begin my Christmas projects in May...I definitely want to do Pam Palmers "12 Days of Christmas" patterns...
Upon arriving back in Silver, we dashed (poetic license?) up to the University to the annual Student Art Show. I found the level of the student's abilities had much improved and the new frosh definitely have talent. I was hugely disappointed with the judges choice for Best in Show; but, glad he gave a first to a lovely wooden sculpture of a Venus (goddess) figure which I'd love to own (surprised to find that the "student" is a bit long in the tooth) ....that and one photograph by Ms. Rebekah June Davis, captured my eye, but not my purse strings!
There were pieces that definitely deserved to be Best In Show ~ but a poorly done oil of a window with a curtain wasn't IT Since I have painted in oils, sold work and was an Art Minor in College, I'm on firm ground in my judgment; put up was a technically inept, totally uninspiring piece of canvas....and the wandering minstral floutist should have practiced a bit more . . . but enjoyed 'schmoozing' with the Profs. and seeing the Granddaughter in her element! Art Shows are a bit like award shows in theater...a lot of kissy kiss and glad handing; amidst boquets of insincerity. :>) Amusing to observe, not much fun if you are emotionally invested. Thankfully none of the Davises were so invested.
Tatting: During the two hour (one-way) drive to the 'big' city, I completed a bookmark for the Round Robin in which I'm participating. I've never done a round robin and am enjoying the experience. Life is so uncertain at this point, that I am getting them done ahead of schedule, and DH will mail them on the appropriate days. I entered the beginning level for two reasons. Cowardice, and my first time out...Neither of which is a stalwart excuse ...but it's my story and I'm sticking with it. I have no expectations whatsoever beyond having fun with it and meeting tatters I might otherwise miss in our community.
No photos with this post, but I promise to show the bookmarks I tatted for the Round Robin after each one is received. That is, if they pass my quality control man ~ Loyal. We have a deal; he gives me an honest opinion of what I tat ~ and the scans. His eyes are better than mine and he is picky (whereas I'm a 'let it slide' kind of person. I gave up perfectionism for less stress). Plus I trust him to be honest and he trusts me not to go into a 'defensive' mode. In other words, during our 52 years, I've never asked the 'land mine' questions; like, "Do you think this makes me look fat (ter?)" and we also laugh when he says something innocuous; and, I say, "Loyal, this is what I heard" It is so much fun to be married to your best friend!
New OLD Pattern from a friend: Joy M. in Australia was looking for an old pattern of a Butterfly doiley; and, she was fortunate that someone on E-tatters sent it to her...having an inquiring mind, I asked if I could 'see' it ~ and she sent me the pattern. NOW, I've never tatted a doily at all..I'm trying to decide between 3 different patterns. That should be fairly easy, right? No, of course not...One is "Sheep May Safely Graze" (Karey S.) and the other is "Beatrice" by Iris N.; and now, the Butterfly from an old magazine (1937). I've tatted one of the sheep for practice...and I'll likely go with that one because I know my middle daughter would love it...then I think I'll at least read the butterfly pattern (this is a 14-inch doiley and a piece I would frame and would definitely do in a traditional white); but I'll probably DO "Beatrice" (using HDT) I'll have to give it some thought; and, this will be after all my other projects that have here-to-fore been listed.

VISUAL, COLORFUL, AND AVAILABLE

Rosemarie Peel's new book from Lacet

I am always watching for a book that I can recommend to beginning tatters and intermediate tatters. Thanks to Jane Eborall this book was brought to my attention; and, to Ms Peel for getting it to me in a timely fashion.

Rosemarie's books are always a visual treat with patterns printed in three colors...making the visual patterns easier to understand and complete. The instructions are presented in a clear concise way; abbreviations are given, 16 different patterns are included. Plus, articles on corners, getting rid of ends, and adding beads to an edging, a bracelet, and more! I love the fact that she named each pattern after family members. Wouldn't it be fun to have a pattern named in one's honor? Well, if you had a lovely name from which to choose. LOL There is also a Free Learn Tatting Leaflet that is large enough to put up on Tag board for the beginning tatter to see the steps of the stitch very clearly.

Cover
Simple Projects

to Esoteric fan adornment!

There is a lot of information packed into this tatting treat published in 2009.

Another book that I've recently purchased is Judith Connor's, "Tatting Adventures with beads, shuttles and needle. This too, could be a good book choice for an intermediate or experienced beginner.

A Preface of basic history of tatting; choosing beads (with visuals and names of 'types' of beads); it is a fine combination of traditional and contemporary patterns. The techniques used are explained and then used in the patterns. There are useful tips, abbreviations, needle-and hook tatting techniques, and of course patterns.
Although I am a dedicated shuttle tatter, I found the origins of needle and hook tatting very interesting. There are beautiful color photos of each project. And the patterns are quite varied with two tatted, beaded bags (one a mignonette pattern) to an Angel Fish with iridescent sequins (I even HAVE some of those, thanks to Aileen). There is also a pattern for a large flat shuttle (works well for beading), a plaited braid, a free-tatted web design (remember each project has the techniques clearly explained to work the patterns). I was particularly interested in the techniques with a needle (such as a Tapestry, Wool, Bodkin, Sewing) that was used during a transitional period in tatting. This sort of tatting is wonderfully shown in To de Haan-van Beek (English Translation '94)
In Addition an elegant table topper, sequined headbands/hair combs (Alice Band) and ear rings. It is written in a relaxed, conversational style reminiscent of traditional tatting books. The publisher's notation states, "a selection of delightful new designs that allow tatters to explore their own creativity in a challenging and interesting way." This is why I recommend it for Intermediate or Experienced Beginners (myself included).

Taking Time to Tat...and tat...and tat!

From Karey Solomon's Creative Mind

The Basket of flowers pattern is in Karey's book,
"Make Many Merrily"





One of the reasons I love "Tatting Times" is that it fits beautifully in either my purse or my Roly Poly bag. (shameless ad here: $15/yr)

Promised to share about, "Tatting Times" by Karey Solomon during a recent post. First of all I love this month's cover...Lately, life is like that, right ? I mean, no matter our plans, we walk blindfolded towards the future.

Well, you don't have to walk blindly with these handy patterns. I particularly like the Clover leaf Fan and the multi-purpose edging. February's issue also had a heart and a cute Teapot with a button in the middle. This issue was dedicated to.....lockchains! Every pattern has lock chains (which are fun to do) I've done a couple of the Clover bookmarks...I think three. I don't remember which one this is: first or third, but the one that had the tassel added, left Silver City today.

BTW upcoming posts will cover my other TeaTowel from Stratford Upon Avon and a new shuttle!

Collecting and Tatting

Chinton 2008 " Hedgehog Merry Christmas" Shuttle arrived safely with a note from Erin. I now have three Chinton shuttles: A Dove, a Sunflower. and a Hedgehog! Erin shares, "We have a few others to be ready soon-including 2 rosewood shuttles with points with the 2 intertwined hearts , 5 cherry Celtic knots (the last one we did) and 3 cherry dragonflies with points." You can contact them at: chinton@nnex.net They are lovely shuttles, with points like a Clover. My budget is at its limit at the moment, so perhaps you can benefit from my 'cutting back." LOL
That said, I'm anxiously awaiting my Lady Hoare invoice, so I can share with you my custom Lady Hoare from Dave at GrizzlyMountainArts. Also, a short cape (capelet) tatted by TotusMel from her ETSY store, that I can wear over scoop neck dresses in the cool spring, winter and cool high desert nights. I also succumbed to a temptation~ I bought a double bobbin Silent Shuttle from Roseground and a new R. Peele book (oh my!). The GMA shuttle is my 53 rd Wedding Anniversary gift (Oct) ; and, the short cape, my Christmas gift. I'm not a fan of coats and heavy sweaters ~ Generally I'm quite warm unless there is a heavy, frosty snow. So light covers, Ruana's and capes are just the thing for Bev.

I re connected with both the Advanced and Beginner's class these past weeks. The Beginner's because I missed the bonus class in '07 which was Split Chains. I find that unless I'm in a class and it is an assignment, I never "get around To it"!
I'm sitting with both Katie Vallee's Split Chain Fan (using the HDT Rainbow Bright) and from Jane Eborall's site; Marie Smith's Fast and Easy Split Chain" tutorial in my lap.
After that, I'm revisiting an exercise using the SR, Mock Picot, and Split Chain technique for the Advanced class (Antique Square Motif from Anna Valerire Book #3) If I complete the assignments and have results worth sharing, it will be posted in December.

On the ridge, the two "lovebirds" have gone for a week to El Paso to visit the fiance's family. Omar's uncle has a wonderful eatery along Hwy 10, near the Air port. It's a regular stop when we go to that area. Prices are good and food is excellent. It is only 47 degrees now at 1 o'clock, but the sun is shining. DH has gone to Wally World for odds n ends and, having sorted out threads and shuttles, I'm beginning my fist class assignment, The KV Fan. I'm having fits with learning the split chain technique. I'm sure, after I learn this, that it will be the same as my experiece with Split Rings. I'll shake my head in wonder and say, "But it really was easier than I thought it would be. . ." Alas, I'm no place near that thought today!

A TATTING MOON

A Tatting Moon on The Ridge. This frosty, new moon appeared the first week of November and brought nights in the 20's; but the days remain in the 70's. A view from our kitchen window! Behind our rock fence and across Grandview Road, are pinion and a few cedars. Over the rise there are neighbors. In the five years we've lived here; we've met the lady of that home once, when she came by to greet her new neighbors. Most folks on the ridge work in town; at least, those who aren't retired. This New Moon stimulated me towards tatting at apace and much is being accomplished.

BELOW: Bookmark, a Favor, for Celeste, based upon the pattern as described in the next paragraph. Size 40 Rainbow Bright HDT with red as a 'tail' (I trimmed the tail about an inch before mailing to get a more balanced look; it was a tat long)

PROGRESS: Below is the fourth of 25 simple cross book marks that I am tatting for the January Guild Meeting favor. From Tatting Collage (Lindsay Rogers) page 26 is this lovely mini cross (in size 10 it is almost 2" tall, in size 40 it is about 1 ") There are 9 dark lavender. Delicia beads, 15/0 on each cross. I decided to tat all 25 and then attach a 'tail' of six strands of thread. I may do Victorian set or Perle tatted tails for balance..

I had tatted two additional book marks. One is the same cross as pictured, shown in size 40 Rainbow Brite HDT (Pamela Meyers ~ Ireland) without beads. The other is by Gina Butler, a basic Ring-Chain Cross bookmark (sent off before scanned) also in the RB HDT. The first is for my friend Celeste, who in her eighties, fell at the hair stylist's shop resulting in a broken hip. Celeste has a replacement and is flourishing at Rehab Facility in Las Cruces. She is working hard at her therapy so she can return to her home and her dog. The other was for another acquaintance, Penny, a sister cancer survivor, who has had a virulent flu for three weeks. One of the challenges for cancer survivors is the fact that our immune systems are null. I enclosed the bookmarks in the cards which were posted right away. I find if I don't do it RIGHT NOW, it doesn't get done! I know from experience, how much cards and a thoughtful small gift can mean when one is laid up for awhile.

This and That

September 11. We Remember those who lost their lives. September 11, we celebrate our freedom. We remember those who have dealt with floods in Iowa (Des Moines), Louisiana (Baton Rouge) and the Gulf Coast. We continue to pray for those who are facing hurricane Ike.

Happy Birthday daughter, Betty!

It is also the day, some years ago, that my daughter BB arrived ~ all nine pounds! And the Dr said, as he delivered the child, "Gonna be a football player, look at those shoulders!" A nine pound GIRL! She, in turn, had a 12 pound BOY. I think I'll stick with BB! She called and opened her gift while we were talking; and, she LOVED it! The vintage, green Carnival Dish in Stag and Holly pattern, with spade feet was made in the early 1900's. She said it looks perfect on her table. Don't you just love it when a person is so thrilled with a gift? I do!

It was also a day for me to be thrilled by a gift. The nice thing about being an 'only' is that one can choose special women along the way to be sisters. My Lil Sis, Marie, sent me the CD from the recent Palmetto workshop. So many patterns! Which one first? 'Ti's a quandary. Thank you Marie~

I had been buying them the last couple of years and when I went to the site to buy THIS years, it wasn't up as yet; so, I e-mailed Marie to ask about the CD. She answered "Don't BUY it this year! You did that last year, too!" Folks have a really hard time surprising me; my DH chief complaint! He can count on one hand the times in the last 52 years he has been able to surprise me with a gift.

Today was a getting-out-day for DH and myself. We went to Bible Study with our friends, led by our Pastor (Studying 1 Corinthians); then, we went to Wally World. I was in fine fettle so had a good time looking for souvenirs for exchanges and Secret Santa package, bought post cards and something denim, something metal and also poly fill for the Holiday decorations.

I plan to have one side with a Tatted Holiday motif and the other side with a simple Colcha stitching, celebrating the Mimbres and NM Culture of flora and fauna. I'm even making a few for Thanksgiving, and Fall Festival season. Like Turkeys and Owls and even a bat or two!

I hope to make the 12 Days of Christmas ornaments in time to have them ready for our Oktoberfest Festival (Party, games, laughter) that our Guild presents around Reformation Sunday.

Because I'm commited (or should be!) to finishing UFO's before the New Year, I passed on doing the T.I.A.S. #4. I did go take a look and it is block tatting. So if you've been itching to try your hand at this tatting element, now is a good time. There is a very good tutorial by Jane Eboral, which is linked to the TIAS site. I didn't have the time to block tat (I'm never satisfied with my result, so it takes me twice as long to get what I want), and am being very good and sticking to my plan!

SPECIAL NOTICE AT BOTTOM OF PAGE

Please take note of the 'warning' notice at the bottom of this blog. Unethical abuse of patterns, blog sites are to be discouraged. This applies not only to tatting but other needle arts as well. BJ

New Tatting Books Spring Forth!

Tatting Designers have spent the months working, reworking; and, having 'test tatters' tat their newly created designs.

First to land on my desk was Holidays on the Block by Martha Ess. This was especially welcomed addition to my tatting library because I am learning block tatting this year; and also, Martha's patterns are always clearly written and easy for a beginning or intermediate tatter; yet, are challenging and fun for an advanced tatter. There are 24 Holiday and seasonal Block Tatting designs by Martha; it was a must in my tatting budget.
The Introduction includes Abbreviations used in the patterns. In addition a schematic that illustrates four different Methods of block tatting; columns, labeled Method, an Illustration, How-To, # of shuttles, Advantages and Disadvantages, and Notations for End of Row (EOE). There are also tips on very small picots, joins, and a section on Pattern Notes that pertain to block tatting as well as other useful techniques such as folded rings, long-Beaded picot (LBP), down Picot with bead (DPB) and so forth. As I was inhaling each fresh page, I came to page 16 - which is SPRING, and a lovely little umbrella. I took a second look and saw a yellow sticky note with a smile drawn upon it - and it was holding in place a wonderfully tatted umbrella from Martha! What a clever way to surprise an old lady. Thank you, Martha. Both for the lovely book and the surprise. Now I am watching the mail box for the next three books that I have ordered that are newly printed plus three others that I had been meaning to buy for some time. I am a firm believer in supporting our talented tatting designers as my tatting budget allows. So many choices!