I teach not only tatting but, also knitting and crochet. With over 41 years in the needle arts, I’ve learned that the first thing that students want is results; otherwise they usually get discouraged and determine that they are unable to master the craft. To fill students with the desire to return for a second class, it’s beneficial that they’re given homework that they can accomplish and complete in the allotted time between classes. This inspires them to not only return but, to look forward to starting up a new project which incorporates more skills to advance their knowledge of the art. To keep students interested it’s important to leave them wanting more.

I teach my classes in two hour sessions; although, I do find that some classes go a little long if I have a student who needs a little more time one-on-one. In the first two-hour needle tatting session, most any student can learn the basics of the ring, chain and picot. Thus, by the end of the first class they’ll have learned the most basic pattern of lace making. With shuttle tatters, I start out teaching them the chain. With the chain, they can immediately see something developing right before their eyes and from their own hands. Then, most of the first session is usually spent working on the ‘flip’ and join.

Accomplishing this, I give my students a simple lace pattern and assign them to continue practicing with the lace, and make as much as they like, until the next class. By the time they return to class they usually have enough lace produced to trim a blouse, dress or at least a hankie. At this level, there are already numerous projects that they can do with what they’ve already learned.

What are my favorite beginning ‘student’ laces? Below are a few simple patterns that I like to give out. The student then can choose which one they’d like to do.

A) R 5∙5∙5∙5∙5∙5 Cl, RW
Ch 5∙5+ last p of r, RW
Rep R & Ch until desired length, ending with R

B) R 5∙3∙1∙1∙1∙3∙5 Cl, RW
Ch 5∙5+ last p of r, RW
Rep R & Ch until desired length, ending with R

C) R 5∙5∙5 Cl, RW
Ch 5∙5 (or 3∙3), join to last p of r, RW
Rep R & Ch until desired length, ending with R

These are also great patterns to start incorporating beads with. They are simple patterns, yet make a wonderful lace that brings compliments to both the experienced and the beginner level tatter.