4 Tips on Choosing the Right Shuttle for Your Tatting

Tatting is a type of vintage lacework where you use thread and tools to create detailed knotwork. There are three types of tatting: shuttle tatting, needle tatting, and cro-tatting. Each uses different tools to create slightly different projects, but today, we’ll be focusing on shuttle tatting. This type of tatting uses a small shuttle to hold a foundation thread while you tie double knots onto that thread. Using the right shuttle is important since it holds the foundation of the project. Keep reading to learn four tips for choosing the right shuttle for your tatting.

Helpful Hooks

Some tatting shuttles come with small hooks protruding from one end, which can help beginners with their knotting. If you’ve just started tatting or struggle with your grip strength, then a hooked shuttle is a good choice. Tatters who’ve never used a hook before or those with small hands may find that this hook gets in the way, so it’s not the best choice for everyone.

Size Matters

Tatting shuttles come in various sizes, and the right size for you will depend on the size of your hand. Women with average-sized hands will be comfortable with something between 2.5 and 2.75 inches. Women with smaller or large hands can find sizes smaller than 2.5 inches and larger than 2.75 inches. Since men often have larger hands than women, they will need to look for shuttles larger than 2.75 inches. People who don’t have good grip strength may also need a larger size.

Picking Picks

While shopping for tatting shuttles, you’ll notice that some have pointed ends called picks. This is different than the hooked ends we mentioned above. A point on one end will help you make joins and pick out any accidental or misshapen stitches, hence the name “pick.” While crochet hooks and tapestry needles can do the same thing, having a sharp point on the end of your shuttle means you have everything you need in one tool. However, beginners may accidentally poke themselves with these points, so they should start on a shuttle without one.

Material Matters

You’ll find tatting shuttles made of all different materials, the most popular choices being plastic and wood. While wood was the original tatting shuttle material, some people find it too smooth to properly grip while tatting and prefer plastic. Other people even create homemade shuttles with cardboard. Try different shuttles made of different materials to figure out which works best for you.

These four tips for choosing the right shuttle for your tatting will help you find a shuttle that you can comfortably use to complete any tatting project. Deciding if you want a shuttle with a hook, what size is right for your hand, whether you want a pick, and what material feels best will help you find a shuttle that will last through all your projects. If you’re looking for shuttles or tatting needles for sale, then you’ve come to the right place. We provide a wide range of tatting supplies for you to pick from so you can state your next project with confidence.