Tag: tatting history

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Organization of space in the craft room

Organized craft room storage with shelves, boxes, and creative workspace

Organization of space in the craft room, or how to store thread supplies.

Hello everyone! Today I organized my polyester thread supplies. I do this periodically. For some reason my thread supply is not decreasing. I think it’s due to frequent visits to the craft store. Ah, my willpower does not work at all when I see beautiful threads, fabrics, beads, accessories… (the list goes on and on!). I’m not a shopaholic, I’m a collector!

Of course, like any master, while working in the studio I have “artistic chaos”! But after finishing the project, I return the tools and the remaining supplies to their places.

Organization of scissors in the craft room

These are not surgical instruments, these are my scissors! (the photo is old, so now there are a little more scissors).

I hung the most frequently used ones on the “scissor tree”! My handsome husband made this organizer for me. The rest of the scissors are in the box. On the shelves in boxes are accessories for jewelry, needle shuttles and hooks for tatting, and various small items.

Organization of threads in the craft room

Sewing threads are always in place. Two organizers for small and large spools were made for me… You already know who!

I store large balls of cotton thread in two wicker baskets. It’s better to put each ball in a plastic bag, so they don’t collect dust.

I always have a problem with polyester balls. These are the threads I use most often in my work. For example, I made this set of bookmarks from polyester threads in all the colors of the rainbow. https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/bookmarks-chakras-tatting-patterns/
At first I put the balls in a basket, then I decided to use a plastic container with a lid. But such storage is very inconvenient. And besides, the threads get tangled and intertwined unless I secure the tail of the thread with a piece of tape (and I sometimes forget to do this). It takes a lot of time and patience to unravel this mess!

While making my next thread purchase, I received two transparent thin plastic boxes from the store. They are not very convenient for storage because they are fragile and soft. But I have a large roll of cardboard and skillful hands! (Is it okay that I’m bragging, LOL!?)
I made four cardboard boxes. Each box holds 10 balls. And two plastic boxes magically became four lids. Now each ball lies in its own “nest”. I don’t have to search for a long time for a ball of the right color, because I can see everything through the transparent lid. But I still have some balls left in a white plastic box. I think I need to buy more thread with a clear box…

Do you also praise yourself when you organize your supplies? Or are your threads always in perfect storage? I will be very interested if you share in the comments how you organization of space in the craft room.

Join me on social networks and also subscribe to my YouTube channel, welcome: https://www.youtube.com/c/ElenaKozinenko

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Variations musical and more

Handmade Christmas garland made of tatting snowflake lace

Variations musical and more, or how music inspired me.

Hello everyone! Do you love classical music? Even if you prefer modern popular music, you have heard the name Beethoven anyway. I’m not talking about the famous St. Bernard dog, LOL, but about the great German composer Ludwig van Beethoven. In any case, in the old days, many people had the ringtone “Fur Elise” by Beethoven on their phones. And all beginning pianists try to learn at least the beginning of the “Moonlight Sonata”. The first part of the sonata (Adagio sostenuto) was called “lunar” by the music critic Ludwig Rellstab in 1832 ? By the way, this happened already 5 years after the author’s death – he compared this work to “moonlight over Lake Firwaldstät.” This sonata has No. 14 and is dedicated to Giulietta Guicciardi. Oh, what a sad love story!

Variations musical and more
Variations musical and more

Amazing Variations musical in Sonata 32

Beethoven created 32 piano sonatas. I assure you, EVERYTHING is there! You hear the influence of the Viennese classics in the first sonatas. Then you are amazed at the drama and tragedy conveyed by the composer. But the last sonatas are something incredible (in my opinion)! Oh, I’m just in love with Beethoven’s last sonata. Because we hear many unexpected solutions in it. And I love non-standard and fantasy!

First, this sonata is in two movements, a rare exception in classical sonata form. Secondly, listen to how the definition of tempo sounds: Adagio molto semplice e cantabile. That is, very calm, simple and melodious. Thirdly, Beethoven wrote this sonata in 1821-1822, being already ABSOLUTELY deaf. This is incredible! And fourthly ( icing on the cake! ) – for the second movement Beethoven used a theme with five variations and a coda , ta-daaa! Although, I am sure, the complexity of the form is compensated by the “simplicity” of C major. What am I saying? Romanticism, jazz, swing – everything is here! Or is it just me? Hear for yourself how it sounds! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccyHT1sFmsg

And I also learned an interesting fact. In Thomas Mann’s novel Doctor Faustus, in one of the scenes the hero performs Beethoven’s 32nd Sonata. And then the hero delivers a big monologue about the hidden meaning of this music.

“Variations” garland

Now I’m sure you will understand my delight and inspiration! I called my new project Variations. Of course, I’m not as talented as Beethoven. But I tried to implement non-standard and original techniques and forms in small snowflakes. Did I succeed? What do you think? Write to me in the comments please. And also write, are you interested in learning new things not only about tatting? But also about variations musical and more, and more, and more…

The “Variations” garland pattern is available in my store, please check: https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/garland-variations-tatting-pattern/

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What is cro-tatting

Yellow jewelry set of earrings and bracelet in the Cro-tatting technique

What is cro-tatting, or do tatting masters deserve poems?

Hello everyone! I want to say Wow! No not like this. Wow Wow wow! This is my cry of joy and pride. And we especially need these positive emotions in this terrible time.

I want to thank the editor of Simply Crochet magazine Alison Maney ( link to the magazine website: https://www.gathered.how/magazines-simply-crochet/ ) and blogger Rebecca Parker ( https://beccaparker.journoportfolio.com/ )for their support and help in popularizing cro-tatting. Of course, it was very difficult for me to talk about such a rare, but very interesting type of tatting in a short interview. Because I am equally passionate about three types of tatting and am ready to talk about them for a Thousand and One Days (almost like Scheherazade!). Besides, I always forget that brevity is the sister of talent, LOL!

By the way, the article is called Crochet’s Quirky Cousins. You can read about Tunisian, Bosnian crochet and cro-tatting in this article. And also look at photos of the works of talented masters of their craft. You’ll understand why I’m proud. After all, it is a very honor to be in the company of such talents! Also I hope my subscribers recognize photos of my work!

Magazine pages with my cro-tatting works

What is cro-tatting
What is cro-tatting

I am also glad for this publication because cro-tatting is undeservedly deprived of attention from tatting and crochet masters. So, how can I briefly say what cro-tatting is? This is a symbiosis of crocheting and needle tatting. And it would be fair to put this type of lace making on a par with the rest of its sisters! Do you agree?

And not just publications in magazines. But also poems should be written about tatting! Agree, the lines from Guido Gezelle’s ode to a lacemaker sound very beautiful. “I love to watch you making lace…” I was very interested to learn about the work of this unusual author, a monk who wrote poetry in the Flemish language. And then I thought, maybe there is a poet who will glorify the masters of the shuttle, needle and hook? Alas, I do not have such talent. But for now I can shoot a video where you will see the beauty and grace of this wonderful type of needlework! https://www.youtube.com/c/ElenaKozinenko

I always welcome your comments. Follow me on social networks. And don’t forget to check my store, welcome! https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/

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Results of the competition

Results of the competition for the best doily name, or how the wrath of injustice is for us to live.

Hello everyone! The competition for the best name for my new doily is over.
I am eternally grateful to all participants for their extraordinary creativity and activity!
Alas, my holiday mood was very spoiled today. One of the members of the FB group accused me of quackery. She wrote in several groups that I was a liar and was not giving away any prizes. How can you be so unfair? After all, this lady didn’t even try to take part in the competition. I was upset and very offended.
I hope you can share some positivity with me and I will feel better. Please forgive me for being too emotional. Alas, I could not come to terms with such injustice.

Of course, I couldn’t choose one option from the many most unexpected, most imaginative and most beautiful names! You are extraordinary! Thank you very much for your creativity, imagination and support of my blog! I really liked absolutely ALL the options! So I resorted to drawing lots. And I made a short video report. You can watch on my YouTube channel how I chose the winner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03JPh1vhfjM&list=UULF3dn4_9pp7tIKA2k564wLBQ

So, Results of the competition!

The winner of Connie’s competition with the name for doily Galaxy Flower. Congratulations!
I send her the pattern by email.
To celebrate all participants of the competition, I am providing a 30% discount coupon for the purchase of this pattern to ALL participants. Please check your emails.

Now the doily pattern with a wonderful name is available in my store, please check it out! https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/galaxy-flower-tatting-pattern/?removed_item=1
Thank you again for your active participation and support!

Follow my blog because I am planning some more contests with exciting prizes!

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DIY fabric

Christmas Table Decor - Placemat

DIY fabric, or creating a unique pattern from pieces of fabric.

Hello everyone! I am very pleased to read your comments and feedback on my new work. Thank you so much to everyone who supports me during this difficult time!
You know that my first and main hobby is tatting. But there are still many types of needlework that I can do well (as it seems to me!).

DIY fabric

One of my favorites is patchwork. I’m sure you’ve heard of the pizza technique. Oh, it’s not about the food! Although I heard Italian housewives say: “I put everything I have left after dinner on pizza for breakfast in the morning!” Very economical and creative, in my opinion. So why not use practical advice in needlework ?! So, we use everything that remains from previous projects. And I used not only pieces of fabric, but also pieces of lace.

So, step by step we go to the ideal result. And I hope our pizza turns out “delicious” enough!

Step one

First determine the size of the placemat you need. I made 24×36 cm. Cut out a rectangle from the main fabric (I have it red-orange), adding 4 cm to the size of the placemat on each side. We also need rectangles of synthetic winterizer and adhesive double-sided interlining 24X36 cm. But you can make a non-woven rectangle 4 cm smaller. Also prepare a piece of 20X 32 cm from nylon, or mesh, or organza. It can be any fairly transparent fabric.

Ah, I almost forgot the most important thing! Prepare ANY pieces of fabric.

Step two

This step is the most exciting, I think. Here you can show all your imagination. Place fabric pieces on the non-woven rectangle as you like. No restrictions, no canons! You create a new fabric yourself. Remember you, I’m a fan of tatting? In the center I added a sample of one of my little lace projects. 🙂

Step three

Now gently “glue” the pieces of fabric to the interlining and synthetic winterizer with an iron.

Step four

Cover the resulting sample with a transparent cloth rectangle and secure with pins.

Step five

Put together all the layers of the prepared rectangles and quilt with a pattern that you like. It can be squares, circles, leaves, flowers. I chose a pattern that some craftsmen call “brains”. With the BSR foot, stitching becomes an absolute pleasure!

Step six

Forming the corners and borders. I plan to make a video on how to do it quickly, neatly and easily. So don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for updates. https://www.youtube.com/c/ElenaKozinenko

Step seven

Iron the finished placemats. And delight your family with a new dinner decor from the new DIY fabric! This way, your meals will be much tastier!

A set of such placemats can be bought in my store, welcome: https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/four-patchwork-placemats-surprise/?removed_item=1

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Ukrainian artist Svitlana Kochetova

Handmade beaded elephant brooch in red, black and silver colors, jewelry by Sviko, crafted with pearls and crystals, handmade by Svitlana Kochetova

Ukrainian artist Svitlana Kochetova. Or my reflections on my personal mission.

Hello, everyone! Today I want to start a series of stories about my talented compatriots, Ukrainian handmade masters. I really like to communicate with different people around the world. After all, thanks to the Internet, it has become absolutely accessible.

And recently I had a short interview with a wonderful beading master, Ukrainian artist Svetlana Kochetova.

Svitlana was born in Zaporozhye. After 4 years, the family moved to Vinnitsa. In this beautiful, cozy city, she grew up and developed her creative talents. Svitlana recalls with incredible warmth her grandmother, who sang Ukrainian songs to her grandchildren and instilled in them a love for Ukrainian culture. By the way, it’s not for nothing that they say that a talented person is talented in everything! Svitlana sings beautifully, knits and knits, embroiders, sews, draws.

Beading

Oh, how many hardships befell this fragile girl! In the “dashing 90s”, when there was no work, the country’s economy was in decline, banditry flourished, Svitlana was forced to leave Ukraine for Italy. Of course, it was very difficult. Hard work, loneliness, disorder … But creativity supported the girl in these difficult times. How many tears were shed, how much grief experienced. But, finally, happiness smiled! Now Svitlana has a home, a family, a caring husband and loving children. As well as cute pets that help her in her work! And now she can devote more time to her “passion” – beading.

In 2016, she saw several works of famous designers, beading masters. Surprise and admiration, as well as a great desire to do even better! And Svetlana started to create the first beaded necklace. Of course, free lessons on the Internet helped. Look, this is her first job. Incredible, right?

There are no boundaries for perfection. A true talent knows how important it is to develop and improve. Therefore Svitlana continued to study new methods and new techniques of beading. In 2021, at the Creativemente competition, the work of Svitlana “The Mistress of the Copper Mountain” received the First Prize!

Also then there were diplomas at other international competitions.

Battle of the Beadsmith

So, this year Svitlana decided to take part in the international competition Battle of the Beadsmith and act as a participant from Ukraine. This is how the master comments on his motivation:

It is my mission to my native country to be its voice in the world. At first, I wanted to make a necklace from two halves – blue-yellow and red-black. Blue and yellow are the colors of our national flag, and black and red are the blood, pain and aftermath of bombing fires. But in the process of creating a sketch, I decided to make Berehynia. This is the image of the Mother of Ukraine, who covers and protects her children, patriots of Ukraine, with her own hands. And let there be no blood and horror in this work, but let there be hope and faith in our victory and our happy and peaceful future! With thoughts about this and a burning desire for peace, I created this image. Therefore, I really hope that viewers will feel how many emotions and hopes are invested in this image.

I ask you to support Svitlana with your comments, share her work and wish her good luck in the contest! https://www.facebook.com/groups/909085782545395/?multi_permalinks=5543179712469289&ref=share

The conversation with Svetlana also made me think. What is my mission? I try to tell the whole world about Ukraine, about its heroes, about its talents, about our struggle for freedom and faith in victory!

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Prayer for Ukraine

Blue and yellow Ukrainian flag waving in the wind, symbol of freedom and prayer for Ukraine, free Pixabay photo, uploaded by FairyLacefromElena

Prayer for Ukraine. My tears and pain are the pain and tears of all the mothers of Ukraine.

Hello, everyone!

I apologize for the “unlace” post. But I can’t be silent.
On 2022 February 24, Russian troops occupied Ukraine. That’s what all the media say. It is not true! Russia invaded Ukraine in 2014, taking over the Crimean parliament and establishing its own dictatorship. The whole world remained silent, believing Putin’s statement that he was “saving” the Russians living in Crimea. Vile lies! He was preparing a military base for an attack on the rest of our country. For the transfer of military equipment, the Crimean bridge was built.

For 8 years, Russian troops have been shelling our Donbass and Lugansk, killing our civilians and depriving them of shelter over their heads. But Putin said – there are no Russian troops there. This is an outright deception! Why did the leaders of European states and America believe him? This silence and non-resistance to evil led to a huge disaster – Russian troops invaded Ukraine. This is a real war. The whole world sees this, but Putin says – I was forced to attack Ukraine so that NATO would not attack Russia. It’s not just a lie, it’s nonsense!

NO WAR

And now the decisive moment has come when every inhabitant of the Earth must make a choice – choose his side. I choose truth, independence and freedom! I choose Ukraine!

Every inhabitant of my country helps the fight against the invaders. Not everyone has to take up arms. It can be a medical bag, a post on the Internet with the TRUTH, and financial assistance.

I will be immensely grateful to everyone who comments on my post, shares a link on social networks or makes a purchase of pattern in my store. Because I send part of the money I earn to support the Ukrainian army.

Welcome: https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/earrings-glory-to-ukraine-pattern/

Prayer for Ukraine! Glory to Ukraine!

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Happy Birthday Polina!

Silver earrings with blue stones, handmade by Polina, showcasing delicate design and craftsmanship

Happy Birthday Polina, or all life in details.

Hello, everyone! I’m sure all of my readers love jewelry. Because we are “girls”! And of course, we are pleased to meet the creators of jewelry. Even if this is not a personal acquaintance, but only an article on the Internet. Therefore, today I want to talk a little about my wonderful friend, amazing lady and talented jewelry designer Polina Rofman. She also has a kind nature and a great sense of humor. You can feel it in the Jewelry that Polina creates for fans of elegant and contemporary style.

In addition, today Polina is celebrating her birthday. Dear Polinochka, please accept my sincere congratulations and best wishes!

Tell us a little about yourself, your family, and how did you got started on Etsy?


I live in Toronto, Ontario . I love this city, it’s new and old at the same time. For me it’s constant inspiration. I work full time and devote my spare time (which I almost don’t have) to my small jewelry business. It’s my passion. I started creating jewelry and accessories in 2011 . I’m completely self-taught. I love beadweaving and complex techniques ,but due to lack of time I don’t make time-consuming pieces very often.

When and how did you become interested in jewelry making?

I have always liked crafting , and I started making simple earrings and stringing necklaces when I couldn’t find affordable and beautiful jewelry for myself. But I didn’t know where to look for supplies, so I went to Dollar stores and bought some cheap headpins and threads. Also I repaired my own broken jewelry and my friends’ jewelry as well. A lot of what I made , I gave to my friends. Oh, I found myself beading every night! So, I became a beadaholic. Of course, I needed to sell , in order to buy new supplies. I think this was my creativity overflowing.

 What is your inspiration for each idea and where do you get the ideas?  

I get my inspiration from the beautiful nature in Canada. Leaves, flowers, the bluest sky in the world…I love Czech glass beads and use them for my art deco pieces.I love semiprecious gemstones. My favorite style is boho. My friends ask me for some specific design , and I use these ideas in my next pieces.I make jewelry for my two beautiful daughters.

How many hours do you spend every day on beading?


I mostly make jewelry on weekends, as I work till late hours every day.

How did you feel when you sold your first jewelry item on Etsy?


I felt extremely happy! It gave me a boost to make more!

What tools do you use for your craft that you cannot live without?


I use all the tools for making jewelry : different kinds of pliers , wire of all colors and material and leather,and chain.

Do you have another talent or hobby?


Haha, I have no time for more activities than I already perform. I used to sing but now I only sing in the shower.

Your favorite color and shape?


My favorite colors are blue and turquoise. Recently I fell in love with red. My favorite shape is teardrop.

Make a comment here of what ever you would like to say.


My life is full – I do the things I love. I love my family – the name of my shop is a blend of their names – Liza and Iris. My husband supports me.

I admire Polina’s jewelry. Because in my opinion these products are perfect. Color, shape, material, sense of style, harmony of proportions – all this is inherent in Polina’s products. You can see for yourself by visiting her store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/lyrisgems

In honor of my friend, I created earrings and named them “Polina”. These earrings are simple at first glance. But I think they are perfect, like my dear friend! https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/earrings-polina-tatting-pattern/

Please do not hesitate to congratulate Polina in the comments and visit her store, you will have great pleasure! 🙂

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Viva l’Italia!

Outline of Italy colored in white, red, and green stripes, representing the Italian flag, by FairyLacefromElena

Viva l’Italia, or as Italy celebrates its national holiday today!

Today, May 2, Italy celebrates its national holiday – Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica).

From Italy with love #Italyformene team © La Repubblica columnist Ezio Mauro writes about how Italy can celebrate Republic Day with its head up:

“It is clear that now, at the time of the coronavirus, there are practically no folk festivals in honor of the Republic. … Citizens hidden behind protective masks remain in the unknown: when will this many-month nightmare end? The fear has not gone away, especially now that we seem to have found freedom again. But if you look back, then one thing should be admitted: if our country, which became a sad pioneer in terms of the spread of the pandemic among the Western countries, managed to resist, then this happened only due to the unexpected cohesion of society. Cohesion in an era of unrest and inequality, and also thanks to a spontaneously arising sense of community, which surprisingly survived under the shrill screeching of the prophets of selective and exclusively national egoism. “

Viva l'Italia!
Viva l’Italia!

Eurovision

Yes, we remember the difficult days and months Italy went through over the past year. And the more valuable is the optimism and steadfastness of this people! Perhaps it was these qualities that helped the Maneskin group to take first place. I’m sure , you watched Eurovision 2021. Of course, I admire the energy and outrageousness of the Italian team. Bravo! This is a great gift for the Republic Day.

Salone del Mobile. Milano.

I want to share with you a little family secret. Italy is the favorite country of our youngest son. He has been there several times and was a participant in the world famous Salone del Mobile exhibition. This year, the traditional spring exhibition was postponed due to the coronavirus. So, we can visit Salone del Mobile.Milano 2021 in autumn, 09/05/2021 – 09/10/2021. Therefore, I made a small photo collage. You can see here some of our son’s designs from the Milan 2017 show. We are proud!

I also want to invite my readers to a wonderful group on FB “Il Grand Bazaar del Chiacchierino“. This group is for those who love tatting! Join us! https://www.facebook.com/groups/2531779106837324/

Ah, I cannot stay away! And so I made some patterns with Italian translation. Because Italian is sooooo beautiful! Difficult though 🙂 So check my Italian patterns please: https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/?s=italian&post_type=product

And as usual, I will be very glad for your comments, questions and new subscribers!

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Large lace tablecloth Maestro

Large round lace tablecloth “Maestro”, handmade in tatting lace, 1.5 meters diameter, photo with author for scale by FairyLacefromElena

Large lace tablecloth Maestro, or how to decorate your life.

Hello, everyone! I recently created a new tutorial for a chic lace tablecloth. You probably read about it in my posts from social networks. Yes, I had a painstaking and very exciting job! By the way, if you haven’t subscribed to my blog yet, do it now! Because this way you will always be aware of my updates. Believe me, I try to make my blog interesting and useful. And your comments, questions and feedback help me a lot in this, thank you!

So, the tablecloth is ready, the graphical diagrams are drawn, the instructions are written. What’s next, you ask? Oh yes, now the most important – I need to take a spectacular photo. To do this, I must “turn on” my fantasy and imagination. Write in the comments how you take photos of your products? Perhaps you have completed photography courses or have a long practice in the art of photography. Or you use the services of professional photographers. Or maybe your family or friends are helping you. Sometimes my husband helps me. In “especially difficult cases”! Oh, I was not born to be a fashion model, ha ha! But I really liked the result of our joint efforts. And do you like this photo?

Also, you can buy this tutorial with a discount right now! https://fairylace.kozinenko.com/product/tatting-tutorial-tablecloth-maestro/

This chic tablecloth can be a great gift for a wedding or anniversary. But not only the holidays need beautiful decorations. Decorate your daily life! Let an amazing family heirloom be kept in the most conspicuous place in every home.

Tatting tutorial tablecloth Maestro

I am sure that many fans of tatting know about the Polish master Jan Stawasz. Yes, I admire his work, his skill. I also really appreciate his contribution to the revival of tatting. I created the tablecloth in memory of this talented craftsman. Therefore, I named the tablecloth Maestro. But I took a photo of him tatting as a base, adapted and modified for Cro-tatting. Cro-tatting combines needle tatting with crochet. Cro-tatting is most popular in Japan. And while many people find cro-tatting more difficult than tatting shuttle or tatting needle, try this amazing method. I’m sure you will like it. My video tutorials will help you master this unusual technique. You can also subscribe to my YouTube channel to keep abreast of updates, welcome! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKBg6xUGZL8&list=UU3dn4_9pp7tIKA2k564wLBQ&index=43

So, I look forward to your comments and questions. Also I will be grateful to like and share!