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| Caps in, counterclockwise spiral |
I was testing a pattern for Richard Embrey and I needed to understand clearly (through action) how to achieve a particular effect. While I had dealt with the concept here - https://tipsaroundthehome.blogspot.com/2023/12/about-helix-tatting-and-more.html, I needed more clarity on the actual tatting since four visual effects are possible.
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| positioning for last stitch for Caps out effect |
It bothered me not being able to identify the path clearly. Just one final stitch in the first row makes the difference! I needed this study.
Secondly there was a stimulating discussion that this technique is macrame and not tatting. If the very basis of tatting is the flipped/transferred lark's head knot (called double stitch), then helix tatting is definitely tatting since chain segments with double stitches are made. And besides the tubular I-cord, numerous shapes can be created, and rings and chains can be thrown off at any point.
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| Helix tatting basic trial |
Thirdly, I couldn't find any really close-up pics of the steps/process. This led me to a quick, very basic pictorial using thick knitting cotton and only 4 threads. However, on it's own, this might've led to some confusion or disinterest. And like most of my work, I delved further, resulting in this presentation pdf.
Helix Tatting Pictorials and Effects (and Tips) - https://drive.google.com/file/d/13dPVQGsmAQU6OS4FrP3YCFgXokdiJVvs/view
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| HT Caps out, clockwise spiral |
Looks fantastic to me!!! :)
ReplyDeleteRichard has tried to get me to try it, but since 2 shuttles are already my enemy and I have tatted with 4 shuttles and 6 shuttles, I declined each time. ;)
Yes, multiple shuttles are main 'disadvantage', Sue. One does need to take care, and it is not really portable. Tatting itself is easy and you do get into a rhythm, though I would prefer reverse stitches.
DeleteYou’ve done a lot of work, I take my hat off to you. I like the effect, but won’t find time to try the technique any time soon!
ReplyDeleteTotally understand, Jane! My shuttles have kind of remained occupied an numbered. engaged. Thankfully I can remove the bobbin from my favourite red shuttles, LOL
DeleteSo you have favorite shuttles, too! Same color as my favorite shuttles, except mine have picks instead of hooks. :D The effect is interesting, but I have not had time to play with it. Thanks for doing all this experimenting so we can all learn from your experience with it.
ReplyDeleteStephanieW
The red Pony bobbin shuttles are my favourite, Steph, although I have yet to try out some of the other shuttles gifted to me. Glad you like the presentation - I needed to do it for myself as much as for others. Now to find time to convert the learning into new designs ;-D
DeleteGreat explanation! Thank you so much Muskaan for all the hard work you did. I'm not afraid of the number of shuttles. After all, in any case, we should always try new things!
ReplyDeleteYes, that's the spirit, Elena, try out new things! Then one can decide whether to continue with it or not, and so on. Perhaps you will use it in your designs?
DeleteLovely piece on how to tat the Helix tatting, I think they would make lovely key rings, the colours look lovely together. well done on trying something new.
ReplyDeleteLove your idea of a key ring, Margaret! Perhaps that's what I'll do with the samplers.
DeletePlease don’t let the number of shuttles scare you, as you know you only use 2 threads to create 1 DS, then you use different threads to tat the next DS. You all know how to make an DS. You’ll do fine tatting a Helix.
ReplyDeleteExcellent photos Muskaan! I love the use of skewers!!! And showing the difference in the 4 effects is good to see. Well explained!
Thank you for your encouraging comment, Anonymous 🌺 I wonder if it's you, Richard? Welcome to my blog!
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