I have always found joy in the self-expression possible through art. Over the years I tried diverse mediums from painting to pottery, cross-stitch to calligraphy. All of these were pushed to the back burner however, when, seventeen years ago, my grandma and I sat down together and she taught me the technique of tatting. A love of this beautiful lost art consumed me.

Tatting is a form of lace-making consisting of knotting threads into rings and chains, forming beautiful patterns of open and closed space. It is created by using thread, your hands, and a tool called a shuttle. Traditionally, tatting has been used for practical items like baby bonnets, table doilies, and lace edgings on various linens. I wanted to use my tatting in a fresh and modern way, but one that would still allow it to be displayed and easily identified as this beautiful old craft. My tatted lace jewelry developed as I searched for a contemporary expression of this classic form of lace-making.

My purpose is to create something that people want to wear and display because they find it beautiful and fashionable, but also because they recognize the piece as this wonderful lost art. Tatting reminds them of days gone by, of their moms and grandmas and elderly neighbors with lace-making fingers flying, and it has a simple and basic beauty all its own. From my fingers emerge lace necklaces, bracelets, barrettes, pins, and earrings, and as I tie the knots, my tatted jewelry ties the past to the present. Do you know someone who tatted? Enjoy your walk down memory lane as you browse Elizabeth's Lace.

All tatting patterns are my own design unless otherwise stated. The jewelry is all of my own design.

AWARDS RECEIVED:
Juried Member - Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen (awarded September, 2008)
Best in Show 2006 Mifflin/Juniata Arts Festival, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania
Award of Merit (Red Ribbon), Fine Craft -- Visual Arts Celebration 2005, East Brunswick, New Jersey
Best Art/Craft 2003 Pittsburgh North Arts