back to old style

Whether one is 'on a break' or not, the backroom activity never ceases! 

Ninetta had uploaded her Endrucks' patterns as one-page diagram-only images on flickr (her depictions are so artistic!). As our Project evolved, she decided to convert them into proper pdfs, with written notations. I had the pleasure of reviewing each of them. This doily #40 was the last of them and the pdf link will soon be uploaded to the Endrucks collection here - https://docs.google.com/document/d/17LEVftXweztBIOWh4sL4BB7bX65ssoOsOn4oXIgCepY/view 

While reviewing her presentation, I got into tatting mode to make sure of clarity and accuracy. Ninetta masterfully modified the original (which cupped) into flat lace. While both patterns are in the pdf, I chose to tat the modified Doily #2.

If you haven't already, I urge you to read her para here (and also enjoy her beautiful tatting) - https://ninettacaruso.blogspot.com/2020/11/renewed-on-third-try.html

Colours simply called to me to highlight the flower shapes and to liven up the days and impel me to tat.

 

What amazed me is how the black center looks more like a flower when seen from the back! Something to remember for future use as a design element!

My tiny variation includes the addition of these graduated picots on the inner side of the split rings. The negative space seemed too large and these picots add a soft touch.

The final round included block tatting.

All rounds move clockwise from the front and can be tatted continuously (as detailed in pattern - many members have already worked continuously in one colour!). 

I went way back in time to work each round separately, despite using 2 shuttles, for a multicolour rendition. Hence this is not a correct representation of the pattern - both Endrucks' original and Ninetta's modified.

For block tatting, instead of making 1ds after a lock join, I prefer counting the lock join as a half-stitch. This gives a neater and narrower effect on the inner end.

Worked with Anchor Pearl Cotton size 8, the final doily measures 9.5cms across. It is less than 4cms and less than 7cms after rounds 2 and 3 respectively. The threads are a mix of old and new buys.

Techniques - 2 shuttles, continuous (one-pass) tatting with split rings and split chains, mock picot, thrown rings, block tatting, 

It is interesting to note (and confusing at times) that even though a split ring takes the classic tear-drop shape, there is a visual reversal! The broad end is the start and threads emerge at the narrow end. This can become potentially confusing not just in tatted model but in diagram as well. 

I like what Ninetta said about diagrams - they are more "democratic"! Absolutely. And easier to present, too. Trying to get the written notations right can be quite a potential 'hazard', taxing the brain.

One year back Marja did a lovely application or Easter, covering  an egg and sharing her notes here - https://solmujenlumoissa.blogspot.com/2021/04/paasiaisen-2021-kapypitsimuna.html . 

Many thanks, Ninetta and Marja - keep inspiring and pushing the limits