Needle Tatting

Okay, Needle tatting is not to be confused with Shuttle Tatting. For one, I can needle tat and have no clue how to Shuttle Tat.  With needle tatting it is a very simple matter of making a 'Larks Head Knot' on the needle and repeating for the required number of times.  If you want to create a picot you simply leave a space between knots, otherwise they sit flush to each other. 

Finishing a section is a simple matter of sliding the knots off of the needle, toward the thread end.  Since the needle is threaded and a length was left before you began making the knots, a loop will form as you slide the stitches off.  If you are to make a circle then you slide your needle all the way through the loop and pull tightly, you will need to pull back toward your work at the very end to get the circle to close.   I recommend knotting every time you finish a section to prevent any unraveling. 

If you are not circling then just pull through completely.  There are plenty of YouTube Videos and articles on this subject.  I even created a powerpoint tutorial complete with illustrations to use during a tatting class I taught.  It turns out teaching 15 people to tat at the same time is a pretty daunting prospect.  On the other hand, using a Knook Hook (knit by crochet) is a great way to make the stitches very visible making teaching easier.

I have two basic patterns down, the first I learned is a flower, pictured below.
The second is a wreath, which I have since used to make a doily.  I do not have pictures of the wreath or doily at this time.

 

Happy Stitching!

Kumihimo

I am currently in the midst of discovering a new craft.  Well, I use the word 'New' lightly.  Kumihimo apparently originates in Japan, and is used to make all sorts of cords, braids, necklaces, purse handles and so much more.  There seem to be two main varieties the round, which is pictured here below, and the flat.  I am considering purchasing looms for each, these braids were done on a round piece of cardboard with seven strands and a very basic pattern.  I am hoping to get into flat Kumihimo soon, not only for the pleasure of putting beads on them (another interest at present) but to see if they can be woven to create extremely attractive items that are also very resilient. 

No matter what you are interested in, or what you like to do, Happy Crafting!

Zentangle Trial

This is one of my initial attempts at a Zentangle, using No. 2 Pencil and a scrap of paper  (formed into a square).  Make of it what you will.

Ballooning

Ballooning by the power-lines.  Why?

Immersed in Sunflowers

This is a closer view of the sunflowers in full bloom, before the seeds grow heavy causing their heads to bow.  Smiling up at the passers-by, laughing gently in the breeze.

Late Summer in Bloom

As summer wanes the late flowers come out to play. 

Summer Encapsulated

I utilized my iPhone, iPad, and creative cropping to create this beautiful photograph of a field of sunflowers from Cuba, NY.