Spiral Bloom Earrings

Some Background:

With all the inspiring thoughts that I received on my come back blog entry, I thought to start with a happy note!!! I came across this beautiful thread from that I got from Yarnplayer as a sample when I ordered her first book “Boutique Tatting”. I’m not sure what it is called but I made these small earrings before with them as well!

I came across many of your fresh ideas and designs as I refreshed myself again with Tatting community on the net. This was inspiring enough to come up with something that I can call my own design. I can’t address my self as a designer yet because I guess it would take lot more effort, time and commitment. I am still a neophyte who is taking baby steps and learn everyday.

Design:

It is a very simple design with a simple three ring tatted flowers extended on two long helix strings made using Josephine knots. Both strings are joined on the top by simple 8-8 ring through which findings are attached to the piece.

It was a mind-boggling event since I am not so good in drawing designs on paper yet. I would appreciate some expert advice on how to draw awesome designs as many of you (Yarnplayer, Jon Yousf, Elizabeth, etc.) use in making diagrams or patterns?

Another challenge that I came across was finishing off the piece. I used steam iron to set the piece and than used some clear nail polish to finish it off. It wasn’t impressive end piece. But to my surprise, the clear nail polish changed the appearance of the color of the thread. It became dark and dull. I would again appreciate some expert advise here as to what is recommended way to finish the piece off?

I hope to hear back from you. Your feedback is very important for me through this learning phase. Please help me improve through this progression to next phase of tatting!

With Regards!

Hola!!! Come back after long time...

Hi all

I guess it was a long break.... Well, lot has been happening for almost past two years. I have been EXTREMELY busy in my life. I got my daughter in June 2009 and started school (my graduate degree) in the fall of same year. Now that I am half way back in getting full sleep (my daughter still needs some cuddling in middle of the night), and almost done with school, my creative juices are kicking back again.

I was away for long time but my interest in tatting and other forms of art never faded away. I oftenly visited many of you through your blogs (Yarnplayer, Sharon, Tattingchic, Elizabeths Lace, to name a few!). I tried to be up to date on some stuff but might have lagged behind to keep up with all the details. I would appreciate if I get the view of latest and greatest in tatting community.

With a long and boring opening, I would like to ask if some of you tried tatting on the rings. I know Elizabeth did. I am trying to learn the technique from Jon Yousf's book. However, not clear on the second part of the double stitch. Do we bring the tatting shuttle through the ring and than into the loop? Is there a way to do this on smaller rings through which shuttle can't pass? Insights, suggestions, feedback is highly appreciated!!!

I hope to hear back from you all!