Tatting is an ancient craft, and nobody seems to know exactly how and where it began. One theory is that the ancient fishermen who used nets to catch fish in the ocean made small charms and knotted pieces for their sweethearts, and that was how tatting began. The sweethearts wanted to be shown how the charms were made, and used their new skill to make lace and jewelry. Wherever and whenever it got its start, the craft has been passed down through the ages, and it is still very much alive.
This is not a beginner pattern. You will need to know the basics of needle tatting, which you can easily find by an Internet search. You will need to know how to make a needle tatted chain, a self closing mock ring, a lock join, and a picot.
The following pattern is for earrings or a pendant, and is made in four rounds. The rounds can be all the same color or different, by your choice. The base of the earring or pendant is a circle of picots. The second round is a 5 pointed star. You can use all one color of thread, or mix it up and use two or three colors. This is a very adaptable pattern. You can even make the little 5 pointed star and stop there. The pattern has pictures that show each round. You have instructions in simple English terms and at the end of the pattern you will find the tatting shorthand version for those of you who prefer shorthand. You will not be able to print off your pattern to have a paper copy, but you will always have your pattern available on your electronic device, and you can zoom in to see the photos clearly. Have fun playing with this pattern, and I hope you enjoy it.
You will need size 10 crochet cotton or Perle cotton and a medium size tatting needle. (I also use doll needles on occasion. They are shorter and do not bend as easily. I file down the point with a stone to take away the sharp point.)