Tattingforming

Tattingforming is a contemporary textile technique that combines traditional tatting with three-dimensional forming to produce sculptural lace objects. Practitioners weave lace motifs using tatting knots and shuttle or needle methods, then introduce internal forms such as wire armatures or lightweight cores to give structure and volume. The approach emphasizes the balance between delicate lace texture and solid form.

Technique overview: A typical project begins with a design plan for the intended three-dimensional shape. An armature is prepared, often a shaped wire framework or a lightweight core. Tatting is worked around or onto the armature, using standard tatting stitches (double stitches, picots) to create motifs that can be joined to form a network. Motifs may be connected to the core or wound around it, with additional tatting rounds added to build volume. After assembly, the piece is reinforced with stiffeners, blocked to set the shape, and finished with beads, cords, or embroidery as desired.

Materials: Common materials include tatting thread, a shuttle or tatting needle, scissors, beads, and wire of suitable gauge. Armature options include wrapped wire, lightweight foam cores, or polymer supports. Finishing supplies include fabric stiffeners or non-toxic glue mixtures, and tools for blocking and shaping.

Applications and status: Tattingforming is used in jewelry, sculpture, and decorative objects, valued for combining lace delicacy with three-dimensional form. It remains an emerging area within fiber arts, with evolving terminology and methods. Documentation and guidance are primarily found in artist statements, gallery notes, and experimental textile publications rather than standardized manuals.

See also: tatting, lace, fiber art, sculptural textile.