Free Antique tatting lace, or let’s give new life to old patterns!
Hello, everyone! Recently, I was commissioned to create a charming collection of handkerchiefs with embroidery and tatted lace. 🪡✨
One of the patterns I used caught my heart immediately — I discovered it in an old booklet printed back in the 1930s! Isn’t that amazing?
So simple, yet so sweet — this little gem of a design was just asking to be shared. 💖
And how could I resist?
This blog post will be short 🍬 — just a few helpful notes to accompany the video tutorial.
As you probably know, I love adding videos to my posts, and I hope this one brings you both joy and practical tips!
🎥 Watch the tutorial here:
👉 https://youtu.be/-hhM84oTQ2E
📜 Pattern Diagram & Instructions
First of all, you can take a closer look at the diagram and written instructions right here — just scroll down. ⬇️
Or, if you prefer to keep this vintage treasure in your own collection, feel free to download the file using the link below:
📁https://drive.google.com/file/d/1I-wHpNrNnbFis7yyW3mGncmXkHncOGxT/view?usp=sharing
🔄 Starting from the Back? Yes, Please!
Did you notice that we start from the back side of the work? That’s a very important detail!
Why? Because it allows us to make all the Rings from the front side, which is so much more convenient — and prettier too! 💡✨
You probably also spotted the little “paperclip” icon on the diagram. 🤓
Now, let me share a secret with you:
Personally, when working with fine threads, I much prefer using a short piece of extra thread instead of an actual paperclip.
Why? Well, the clip can leave a rather noticeable hole, and as you may already know —
I’m all about that Perfect Tatting! 💖
(If you’ve read my previous blog posts, I’m sure you saw that coming. 😉)
🧵 A Tiny Twist for Perfect Rings!
Here’s something else to notice in the video:
I add an extra half of a double stitch at the end of each ring, and then pull the shuttle through the loop on my hand before forming the next one. 🔄✨
Now, don’t get me wrong — I’m not saying this is the only way to do it!
As we all know, tatting is not dogma — it’s an art! 🎨🪡
But… if you like your rings to look perfectly symmetrical and neat, this little touch might just become your new favorite trick! 😉
🪡 Needle Tatters, This One’s for You!
If you’re working with a needle instead of shuttles, I’ve got a little tip for you too! 🤫
I’ve actually shared a video about it earlier, but here’s the trick in short:
Before closing the ring, give the thread with the double stitches a single twist.
That’s it!
With this simple move, you won’t need to tie extra knots after each ring. 💡
It’s especially lovely when you make two or three rings in a row — the result looks smooth and seamless! ✨💕
🧵 Want to Add a Corner or a Curved Edge?
If you’d like to turn this lace into a corner or create a curved shape instead of a straight edge — you’ll find extra diagrams and tips in the full pattern available in my shop.
https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/antique-border-tatting-pattern/
💬 Let’s Keep in Touch!
If you enjoyed this, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, ask questions, or share it with your tatting friends! 💌
And above all — happy tatting! 🧶✨
This is so pretty and so delicately feminine. Thank you for sharing the pattern and the how to do it.
Tatting is my passion and I try my best to promote this art. Thank you so much for the kind words and for supporting my blog, Carole!
You are saving my life with your tips and tricks!
Leslie, you flatter me! I’m just sharing my experience! And I’m very happy to be of service.