I have done more since this was taken, I just don't want to take a new photo right now. As you can see, I'm using two Tatsy shuttles to tat my tie. These things are HUGE! I don't think I have actually used them before now. They were a bit cumbersome to use at first, but they're not bad now. One advantage to using these shuttles is that the size 10 thread I'm using seems really, really small. For those of you not familiar with Tatsy shuttles, they are 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) long. The tie is about 5.5 inches long in the photo. It's also about 1.75 inches wide at narrow end. In case you're wondering (and so I have an online record of it) the tie should be about 18.5 inches long, and 4 inches wide at the widest part when finished. This is based on my calculations that each "four-ring square" (I think that is the common name for motif I am using) is about 0.5 inches square. In reality they are a little bigger, so the tie should be bigger. This is a good thing, since based on the "real" tie I am using a pattern/guideline the tie should be 20 inches long.
Speaking of a "real" tie, I have been thinking of making my tatted tie into a "real" tie. You know, one that you have to, um, tie. I diagrammed the full tie Sunday, and realized that I could easily extend the tie from the top to make a full sized, have to tie, tie. In case you were wondering, I was planning on making a fake knot and putting on the tie with a chain, just like my chainmaille tie. I think it should work, but I'm not sure how well the tatting will hold up. I mean, I don't want it to stretch substantially. I think I could outline that section with chains to add strength and reduce stretching. I'm not going to dwell on this issue right now. I will have to tat a test section to see.
I'll leave you with a final thought. Is anyone out there interested in a tatted tie pattern? I have the pattern all diagrammed out-all five (count 'em, five) pages of it. Four pages are 80-90% diagram. If there is interest, I would be willing neaten up the diagrams and perhaps a bit of guiding text (I am NOT going to write out the whole pattern; it'll be a book!). It's not a hard pattern, just lots (and lots) of rings, and lots (and lots!) of split rings. Some chains may be needed (see above paragraph) and lots (and lots-you get the idea) of joins, both regular and shuttle/lock joins. A fair amount of work went in to diagramming the pattern. I have mapped out the entire split ring pathway to tat the tie continuously. Realistically, I'm sure you'd have to add thread at least once maybe twice during the actual tatting. I will say it upfront, this won't be a free pattern, and I don't know what I would charge for it (advice is welcome on this too). Maybe I'll put up a poll.
That's all for now. Hopefully my progress on the tie continues at my current pace (I haven't touched the second Birdcage motif-my first UFO/WIP for 2011!). Till next time.
My two shekels-worth: your tie is definitely worth $$$ so don't hesitate to sell the pattern. Yogi, your stamina for diagramming is much stronger than the average bear!
ReplyDeleteHow about incorporating a length of silk fabric to cope with the actual knot? It seems a waste to do all that work to make the tie long enough, just for it to be scrunched up in a knot! Also, the fabric section would sit a lot better under a collar, and then all your tatting would be visible in the front.
ReplyDeleteMaybe mark out on an ordinary tie exactly how much of it goes into the knot - you could overlap a bit, of course - I think it would be a lot sturdier.
I gave up wearing ties years ago, and now I lead a more casual life style. ; )
ReplyDeleteI like Maureen's idea, and I sure hope we get to see a picture of you wearing your new tie!
Oh definitely share your tatted tie pic on your blog! I'll share the link on my facebook page so you can get more visitors! I love to share tatting links on my facebook page! That is such a cool idea!
ReplyDeleteDiane's comment is cracking me up!
Recently I was looking at some vintage publications via the Antique Pattern Library and saw some knitted and crocheted ties. Of course, both knitting and crochet are denser that tatting, especially with yarn. In a similar thought to Maureen's, wonder if you wouldn't want a fabric backing/lining. It would always give a solid background contrast to the tatting which might be lost on a print shirt, and it will help the tatting keep its shape. Of course, if you don't sew at all, this could be another obstacle. Your design and shaping look spot-on and I'm interested in seeing where this will go.
ReplyDeleteHaving a husband and 5 sons ad living in a culture where ties are a must every Sunday- I would love to have the pattern. Of course, I don't know if I have the stamina to actually complete one- let alone six- but I would love the information to try.
ReplyDeleteYour tie is looking good! And to diagram this out - wow! More power to you.
ReplyDeleteOnce upon a time my daughter, while in gradeschool, asked me to tat her a tie (go figure) So I did - a lot different from yours - and I made it long enough to go around the neck and actually tie. It was a total bear because the tatting wouldn't slide up into the knot. I finally cut off the narrow part and made it a choker and had the front, wide part hang down from that. I was using a black in size 10 but I don't remember what brand. It might have been regular crochet thread which might be the reason for it not sliding. I'm curious to how your test of the knot part comes out. Good luck.
Your tie is looking good, I think lining it with some fabric would keep in shape, I hope you will take a photo of you wearing it when it is finished.
ReplyDeleteMargaret
Jeff , great tie. I have made several fabric ties.
ReplyDeleteIf you do make your own backing and don't use a ready made tie, it's important that you cut your fabric on the bias. If you don't your tie will not wrap around your neck or tie easily or lie flat.