If you love heirloom-style details, this tatting handkerchief edging project on CraftBits has that lovely old-fashioned charm that never really goes out of style. The pattern teaches you how to create a delicate tatted edging for a handkerchief, using No. 40 crochet cotton, a tatting shuttle, and a handkerchief base, with a finished edging depth of about five eighths of an inch.
What I like most about this project is that it feels timeless. This is the kind of trim that would work beautifully on a wedding hanky, a memory keepsake, or even a gift for someone who appreciates vintage needlework. The finished edge has that dainty, detailed look tatting does so well, and it really suits anyone who enjoys traditional thread crafts.
That said, this is definitely not one of those “zone out and wing it” patterns. The instructions are written in a more traditional abbreviated format, so beginners to tatting may find themselves slowing right down to decode the rings, chains, picots, joins, and reverse work sections. The comments on the page also show that some readers found parts of the wording a little confusing, particularly around a likely typo in the instructions.
For experienced tatters though, that probably will not be a dealbreaker. In fact, if you already know your way around a shuttle and enjoy vintage-style edging patterns, this one has a lot of appeal. It is delicate, practical, and perfect for anyone wanting to add a handmade finishing touch to a plain handkerchief.
Overall, I’d say this is a lovely little project for tatters who enjoy classic lacework and don’t mind a more old-school pattern style. It is pretty, nostalgic, and full of handmade charm — the sort of project that makes you want to sit quietly with thread, a cup of tea, and far more patience than I usually have before miscounting picots.
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