Episode 142: Tatting and Stepping Back in Time

[@grimmmunro2279]

How lovely to spend such happy crafting with your mom 😊 i was taught to tat by a lovely lady i looked after in a residential home when i was 19...many years ago now 😂 she was very talented. When she died suddenly i was very upset,her daughter came and gave me her tatting box ,complete with the last piece she had been working on.i still have it more than 50 years now,one of mybtreasured possessions. Lovely video.x

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you so much for relating your touching tale about tatting - how lovely that you have been the guardian of the lady's tatting box for all these years! x

[@pamelageoghegan8859]

As Mum and Dad were both involved in the weaving industry, I found that very interesting. Mum was a "twister" and Dad was a "Preparing Master". Thank you. x

[@mousiemakespod]

There are so many interesting fibre arts and it's great that you have this special interest. x

[@Yvonne.49]

Hi Helen, I'm a new subscriber in Michigan USA. Found you the other day with your mum and I was enchanted and hooked on your blog. You have such a lovely voice and I thoroughly enjoyed your campervan trips. You are a talent and I'm catching up to your videos. Your animals are sweet and I so admire your talent❤your mum's wartime story was amazing and she is a fine role model. My mom passed in'99 and I miss her😢so God bless you both!

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Yvonne, for joining me and it's so lovely to hear that you have been enjoying catching up with some of my podcasts! I agree with you - my mum is an excellent role model and has taught me such a lot. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment and I hope you continue to enjoy my podcasts! x

[@LMaxson235]

Helen, just recently discovered your channel and loving every second of your videos. You have inspired me to try knitting, but it’s not going so well. I may have to stick with quilting and crocheting but I am not giving up just yet. I have to make a pair of knitted socks and perhaps a mouse! My daughter married an Englishman and moved to England near New Castle two years ago. Keep on making videos! You are lovely and make my days so much more pleasant.

[@mousiemakespod]

@@LMaxson235 Hi Lucille and thanks so much for your lovely and encouraging comments! It’s lovely to know that your daughter moved to my part of the world! I think any new craft skill takes a bit of persevering so I hope you manage to get the hang of knitting - but crochet and quilting are two wonderful skills to have, too. Thank you for spending time with me and hopefully there will be lots more for you to enjoy.

[@jac6274]

Hello Helen, just discovered your channel, so have subscribed, what lovely interesting subjects and projects you do! Very inspiring and enjoyable to watch and have to say love listening to your very calm voice. Have lots of you to catch up on. Very best wishes

[@mousiemakespod]

@@jac6274 Thank you, Jac, and you are very welcome here! x

[@alegna4132]

Amazing watching the tatting today - thanks Helen and Helen's mum for showing us. Think tatting, lace making and crochet are all beyond me sadly - but I can knit so that is my saving grace! My mum taught me and when she was young (wartime and after) she and her mum and her 4 sisters would all sit and knit and natter together. Must have been a lovely time. The 1940s event looked great - we went to one in Norfolk a few years ago and a Lancaster bomber flew over as part of the day ! Noticed a bowl in the caravan you showed us is the same as one my mum had from her mum which is now mine so that was lovely to see. Thank you as always. 🪡🧵🧶

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Alegna - I'll pass on your thanks to my mum. I loved having a go at tatting but I will probably stick with knitting and crochet in future! How lovely that you have those nice memories of you mum and sisters knitting together! I love events where different times in the past are reenacted, and it was great to see the 1931 caravan - fancy spotting a bowl the same as one that has been passed down to you! xx

[@ericallerton809]

Thanks again Helen,,,, Wow,,,that is fine work your mum does,,!!, Lovely,,, Take care,, Elaine 💗🏡

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Elaine - I am always amazed at the detailed work that my mum produces! I enjoyed my tatting lessons but I may not take it up as my new hobby...! xx

[@marymary5494]

Tatting is something I’ve never tried, so many crafts, so little time. ☺️ I very much enjoyed the story of linen. Thank you. 👌💕

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you! I’m very glad you enjoyed the linen story! I’m glad I tried tatting but I’m not sure it’s going to be one of my new hobbies! 😂

[@christineo4934]

I know I say this time after time but I think this is my favourite blog to date 😂❤ Tatting has always intrigued me and watching your Mum give you a lesson was just wonderful. Thank you for reading another story - what a fabulous book. Inside knitting - I am certainly going to read up on that little gem. Wishing you the most wonderful week xx

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Christine, and I am just glad that you found this all interesting! Sometimes I watch my videos back and wonder whether anyone at all will be interested so I really do appreciate your very positive feedback! Take care and see you next time xx

[@marywhite1749]

Thank you for the lovely episode. The flax story was so interesting….Born in the mid-50s in rural Ireland I am very fortunate to have learned to knit, sew and crochet. My grand-aunt knew how to tat but I never learned. I love all the old crafts.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Mary, you are welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed the flax story. Those of us who have learnt to do some of these fibre-related crafts are so fortunate!

[@curlew-3592]

Absolutely delightful. Thank you.😁🌷

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - you are very welcome! x

[@carolschobs2621]

Your story telling is superb such a warm gentle voice you have I loved the linen story and liked seeing the 1940’s items on show. Your Mum is talented too. Thank you Helen. From Carol

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Carol, for your kind comments. x

[@epiphany8276]

Loved seeing the tatting. One of the ladies at my knitting group tatts and gives us things she makes for Christmas or other holidays (if she thinks we deserve them lol) I have an angel, shamrock and a heart, very treasured. The 1940's event was wonderful, loved the caravan. Thanks for sharing your days. Jane

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Jane - how lovely that you have been gifted some tatted items! I'm glad you enjoyed this episode (especially that lovely old caravan!) x

[@julieanderson3915]

Such a lovely episode. Precious time sitting beside your mother as she teaches you a new craft. My five year old grandson would relish the details given in the century old children’s book, and I thoroughly enjoyed the glimpse of the 1940s. Thanks so much, Helen.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Julie, it certainly was lovely to spend that time with my mum. I'm glad you enjoyed the old book and the glimpse of the 1940s! x

[@karenk380]

That little camper was pretty cute. Funny, though, all the breakables. Of course, that was what they had available in the 40's but camping for me was always with tupperware😉. Gotta love the 70's. I don't think I ever watched my grandmother tat. I do have some of the things she made. Knotting🤔. I never really knew. thanks for sharing. While I didn't really find flax fascinating, I did find it interesting to think about children of 1900 listening with rapt attention learning about it. I will confess I didn't know how linen was made exactly. It does blow my mind that cloth can be made with a plant. why doesn't it disintegrate when washed. just wish it wasn't so wrinkly.😉 See you next week.🤗

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Karen. Yes, I did wonder about all that breakable crockery in the old caravan! I guess they must have packed it away while travelling along. There's a definite place for plastic in such situations! I agree about the flax story, but, as you say, it's interesting to think about it from the perspective of a child in the 1900s! And it is fascinating to learn that linen begins as a normal-looking plant! See you next time xx

[@KylieCooStudio]

Superb podcast. The old caravan was fascinating - I didn’t know there was such a thing back then. Your reading about the flax was very relaxing. Thank you.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I loved that old caravan, too - so full of character! I'm glad you enjoyed listening to the flax story, too. x

[@michellehenderson2773]

Helen you have solved a mystery years ago when I great aunt died we found all her bobbin lace and we now know shuttles for Tatting we hadn't a clue so thank you 🤗 Another brilliant podcast Have a lovely week xx

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Michelle, I am so glad to have solved your mystery! Thank you - I'm glad you enjoyed all the things I shared this week! xx

[@stellaholloway6729]

Loved the 1940's displays !

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Stella! x

[@apple369]

Hello from Vancouver, BC. I'm enjoying your podcast very much. Thank you very much for making and sharing them.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - I'm very glad you're enjoying my podcasts!

[@jeantompkins67]

Thank you so much for sharing your Mum and the tatting. Please give her a big thank you for me. Happy tatting! 😀

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Jean - I have passed on your thanks to my mum! x

[@pip-woollycwtches]

Hi Helen. I inherited some antique linens. Mostly napkins some of them have what I thought was very fine crochet around the edges. But i now think it could be tatting. Please thank your mother for showing her lovely work. It was very interesting to see x

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Pip - I will pass on your thanks to my mum. How lovely to have inherited some antique linens! x

[@EvieO1950]

Interesting 40s memorabilia.

[@judithward7008]

Hi Helen - I only discovered you this weekend via your 'Knitting Mouche & Friends' video. I've delved back and really enjoyed earlier recordings too and this one has made me want to look out my tatting shuttle and get knotting again! I live in the Midlands - enjoy many hobbies - and am now lucky enough to be retired, so I have lots of time for crafting! 🙂

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Judith! I hope that you might enjoy getting back into a bit of tatting now that you have time for lots of crafting! x

[@joysedgwick812]

I have some of my Grandma’s tatting, thank your Mum for sharing her skill. It looks very complicated! The icing on the cake at the end of your lovely video was the bears paw quilt. Deep sigh of pleasure, thank you 😊.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Joy - I will pass on your thanks! How lovely to have some of your Grandma's tatting. I have only just learnt what a bear's paw quilt is, through someone else mentioning it in an earlier comment - there seems to be a lovely story behind it!

[@thepiaknits]

Good morning Helen, what a lovely video ❤️ I very much enjoyed seeing all your mum’s tatting shuttles. She has quite a collection! What a great idea to take this craft while traveling by airplane. The book from 1900 is so precious! Thank you for reading the story for us. Have a lovely day 🌷Marjam

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Marjam - I'm glad you enjoyed the things that I shared today! Tatting is definitely an excellent travelling craft because it takes up so little space. See you next time!

[@Izzyic7505]

How lovely to watch your two sets of hands while you learned to tat. It made me wistful. I’ve never tried it and whilst your Mum’s makings were beautiful, it doesn’t appeal to me. I admire her skill immensely. I remember that book from a previous video, and enjoyed it just as much this time. The 1940’s video again made me wistful, not so much for the era but for my mum who lived through it, for what she (and all of England) endured. I was amazed that the folks could still fit into their uniforms! Not something I would have been able to do 🤣😱. Another lovely video Helen. 🤗

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Isabel. Looking back at the video of my mum and I's hands working together, it is rather lovely to see. I don't think tatting is going to become one of my new hobbies although I did enjoy having a go! I'm so glad you enjoyed your second encounter with with 1900 book and that the 1940s event made you think about what your mum went through at that time. See you next time! xx

[@priscillamcgarry5200]

Another fun blog… I’ve tried tatting and must admit it’s not a favorite past time. The friend that tried to teach me had been tatting since a child. She tatted so fast that her fingers seemed to fly! Thank you for a visit into the past. Your music was perfectly chosen for the 1940’s.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Priscilla - I'm not sure that tatting will become a regular hobby of mine, either! But it was interesting to try something new and challenging. I'm glad you enjoyed my choice of music - I always try and choose music that seems to fit best! xx

[@sewcreativelysew1275]

Thank you Helen , loved your story telling very relaxing 🌸

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - you are welcome! x

[@strawberrypatches8742]

Hello dear Helen, What a lovely episode, although short ( I really enjoy you company, you see). I watched it all without skipping and it was quite interesting, everything that you've shared. As a child I was facintaed by the stories of the old times told by my grandma and your video was just as entertaining! thank you! I was expecting to see Giorgio, but I guess you are like Scheherazade, leaving us waiting and wanting for more of your stories :) It is so precious that you get to learn from your mum! What a precious time! My mum is not like that... I learned all the knitting and crochet from my grandma and I miss her so much... I just wanted to thank you. Every time I watch your videos I think of her. Have a lovely week, Greetings from the Land Down Under, Marina

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Marina, I am very touched that you would be happy with a longer podcast to be able to spend time in my company! When I first started doing a regular weekly podcast, I decided that I would mostly aim for a length of 20-30 minutes mainly because I always end up taking such a long time over the editing! I'm very happy to prompt your happy memories of your grandma, even though you miss her - I'm sure that her creativity and skills live on in you. I am very lucky to have my mum to teach me crafty things - and I enjoyed the challenge of learning something new! Although "Giorgio" (mine is called Catkin) is now finished, I made today's podcast nearly 3 weeks ago, to schedule for today, knowing that I would have only just got back from our long-ish campervan trip... it's funny that on KZbin, time can be altered in this way! So next week, you will definitely hear me chatting about the completed cat!

[@strawberrypatches8742]

@@mousiemakespod oh how clever that you planned this three weeks ago! I should be so organised. Before having kids o would probably have done that. No I barely have time to make one episode a month! 🙏

[@carolvancura1424]

I just love listening to your voice, its like gentle harmony to you would love to hear more.! I really enjoyed your videos.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Carol - I'm so glad you're enjoying my videos!

[@teresaharp]

Hi Helen, I always lov e it when I see your podcast pop up friend😊. I missed commenting last week. I used to tatt a lot several years ago. I could never get the hang of the shuttle so I used a 3 inch needle instead, learned on YT. How nice to learn from your mom. I thoroughly enjoyed the tablecloth story, what a wonderful book. Enjoyed seeing the 1940s too, isn't it amazing. Thank you for all you do. Have a wonderful week❤

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Teresa - I'm glad you enjoyed all the things that I showed you today. I was really interested to learn that you found an alternative method of producing the same effect as tatting with a shuttle! See you next time! x

[@joyofthings]

My grandmother did tatting.Hope your ok, thanks for your interesting crafting Helen.xxxx🐝🐝🐝🐝

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - I'm glad you enjoyed this week's offering and it's lovely that the tatting reminded you of your grandmother. xx

[@henriettejosephine]

I only found your channel a few days ago and since then I am binge watching.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Henriette - I'm glad you're enjoying spending some time with me!

[@maritjohanne3406]

It is so interesting and nice to watch your video and listen to all the history you know! My mother had some old bone tatting shuttles, but I never saw her use them. I am not sure if she had only inherited them. Maybe she learned it as young, but didn't keep on. In Norway Tatting is called Nupereller. I loved the reading from the old book 😊. The looking back to 1940's was very nice, I love history! I am a new subscriber, I discovered you with the video of your trip to Acomb!

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you for joining me - I'm glad you enjoyed the trip to Acomb in my previous podcast, as well as this week's video! It was very interesting to have a go at tatting - and interesting to hear what it is called in Norway! I love to learn history in all sorts of ways, from books that were made long ago to re-enactment events like the 1940s one that we went to. I hope you will continue to enjoy the variety of things that I share on my KZbin channel!

[@angelaholcroft4515]

Morning Helen. Your mum's dexterity is fabulous. Watching her tatting was fascinating. The delicate looking flowers, beautiful. Think I'd definitely end up with a tangled mess. 1940s event, right up my street. Reminded me of Beamish. Last day of summer holidays here. Little ones here for the day as mummy has an inset day. They've already go plenty crafting activities planned. Have a lovely week . Take care. Xx

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Angela. I do find it fascinating to watch my mum tatting (and doing other delicate work such as her embroidery) and I enjoyed giving it a go though it was definitely quite a challenge! Yes, the 1940s was like a little section of Beamish appearing on our doorstep! I hope you enjoyed yesterday's craft activities with your little ones before they went back to school. I hope your father-in-law is doing okay, too. See you next time xx

[@janice4892]

I just found your podcasts and have really enjoyed all your content. Your mom teaching you how to tat brought back many memories for me watching my grandmother (many years ago) tat the pretty edges on pillow cases. You have a very nice reading voice. I enjoyed hearing about flax and linen. What a wonderful book! Thank you. ❤️

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Janice - I'm very glad to know that you enjoyed this video! How lovely that you were able to watch your grandmother tatting edges for pillow cases!

[@debbiestuckey6599]

That was very interesting, Helen!!! Tatting looks tedious, but maybe it's just like learning anything else. I've always enjoyed doing counted cross stitch on linen, so i liked hearing how it's made! And i love learning and seeing what things were like during war time. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Debbie, I'm glad you found this week's podcast interesting! Making those tiny, detailed things with tatting is certainly rather time consuming, and no good if we wanted a quick project! It's so good that we can keep finding new things to learn - and I especially like events where history is re-enacted! x

[@alisonwardell5978]

Hi Helen. I so enjoyed watching your video, especially tatting with your Mum ❤

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Alison - I'm very glad you enjoyed spending time with my mum and I! x

[@helenogorman9467]

O that was so lovely. Thank you

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Helen - you are welcome! x

[@18MundyStJournals]

❤thank you for thinking wonderfully interesting video❤

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - I'm very glad that you enjoyed it! x

[@maude5160]

Hi Helen and Helens mum, loved being shown the tatting but I think it a bit complicated for me even though I can crochet in that very fine cotton and can do macrame, shall leave the tatting to the experts. I have flax come up in my yard, very dainty flower. Thanks Helen

[@unaketteridge7684]

Hello Maude! Glad you enjoyed the tatting, though I have to confess it is not easy to teach it to anyone, despite the fact I find it fairly easy to do myself. Fortunately Helen has a good deal of patience which was helpful. It’s not everybody’s ‘cup of tea’. Best wishes, and carry on crocheting😀

[@maude5160]

@@unaketteridge7684 Hi Una, you have a great talent with your tatting, and a talented crafting lady and you have passed on the crafting genes to Helen. Thanks and take care x

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Maude, I'm glad you enjoyed seeing the tatting today though I'm thinking that I may just stick to crochet in future - I will have to try crocheting with fine cotton! Flax is rather a pretty plant, isn't it? How lovely to have it coming up in your yard! x

[@elizstitches]

Loved it Helen, thank you!

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - it was my pleasure! x

[@lindachadwick2911]

Love the bears paw quilt! Just made this Blok this afternoon for a sampler block quilt!!

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Linda, I had wondered what the name of that quilt pattern was! I love the name. Quilt blocks are something I have yet to try!

[@lindachadwick2911]

@helenketteridge I'm following a quilt pattern book called the Underground Railroad which is about how quilts were supposedly used to help slaves in the southern states of America escape to freedom. The Bears Paw apparently meant to follow the animal prints!! Kot sure how much is true and how much is myth but its a lovely book.

[@mousiemakespod]

@@lindachadwick2911 That sounds like a very interesting book! It would be lovely if the story about the Bears Paw quilt block was true!

[@nature12487]

Very interesting craft. Looks like it takes patience and practice. The 1940's show was great. Take good care

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Lisa - tatting is definitely a craft that needs to be taken slowly at first, with lots of patience required! I love it when history is brought alive by a bit of re-enactment. x

[@nature12487]

@@mousiemakespod Indeed. Love the dancing from the 40's. Would love to learn jive and swing 🤗

[@marybarratt2649]

Another relaxing video. I remember watching a programme from Ireland on the growing of flax and the process of linen making. So interesting. I’ve never tried spinning, I think it would be too daunting. Weaving always draws me though. Love those forties events. The caravan is brilliant. Would have liked to see more. Tfs

[@mousiemakespod]

I've never tried spinning either although, like you, I'm more drawn to having a go at weaving... The forties event was very enjoyable and the caravan in amazing condition (and the owners still go on holiday in it!!) xx

[@suziefab9532]

Thank you ,it was interesting to see al the tatting ,I was not sure what it was ,I’m glad you showed it ,it looks like it took a long time to make the lace .

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Suzie - I'm glad you enjoyed seeing the tatting and I think you're right, that it would take a long time to make just one piece of lace! I'm not sure it's going to be my new hobby... x

[@Joan.Sandmoor]

Love your videos, Helen. I once tried tatting many years ago but didn't keep it up. Crocheting is now my happy craft. Love your Mum's demo. Maybe I'll try tatting again x

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Joan - I loved having a go at tatting, but I might just stick to crochet and knitting! x

[@DawnsDays]

That was fascinating Helen, I've seen those shuttles before but never knew what they were used for. That children's book is adorable 🥰 I watched a KZbin video a few years ago about harvesting flax, it's amazing stuff xx

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Dawn - as a lover of miniature things, tatting would be a great craft skill to have, but I'm not sure that it will become my new hobby! I'm glad you enjoyed the old children's book, too. xx

[@carolewinstead8270]

I would love to go to a 1940's event. I've never heard of one on this side of the pond. We do have the WWII museum in New Orleans, about 3 hours away.

[@mousiemakespod]

We seem to quite often have events like this, always enjoyable - I suppose it's a bit like a section of a museum coming to life, with real people dressed in the fashion of the time - lots of fun! x

[@Helen_kittycat_crafts]

i thoroughly enjoyed watching your video and i learnt so much xx

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Helen - I'm so glad you enjoyed this video! xx

[@penelopeschinwag]

I would love to learn tatting from your mum. It appeals to be able to make small delicate pieces. I've a feeling it would take a great deal of practise. The story was mesmerising, not boring at all and so interesting. The 1940's doesn't appeal much. Not sure why, I was born in 1949! Mmh, I'll have to think about that. You always make me think Helen! Thanks for another interesting episode. xx

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Pene, I do find it easiest to learn a new practical skill while sitting right next to someone showing me! Tatting certainly takes a lot of practice - but the finished items are so beautiful, so that might be the incentive I need to keep practising! I'm very glad that you enjoyed the flax story - when I watched the video back I did wonder whether anyone would enjoy it! Sometimes it's hard to know what is going to catch people's interest! I think there are definitely different eras of our history that appeal to us more than others, and it's rather interesting to pause and consider why that might be. Thank you for giving me things to think about, too! xx

[@shereewaddell3417]

Loved watching

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - it's my pleasure!

[@pjl2963]

I always look forward to Mondays, and your latest video, Helen! I remember a friend trying to teach me the art of tatting over 40 years ago! But I'm afraid I didn't advance very far. Your mum's talent has me in awe! And thank you for sharing the story about how flax is processed...very fascinating! Flax is near and dear to my heart, but to EAT, lol. I live a low carb lifestyle and very often bake bread with flax meal! What a versatile plant...you can weave with it AND eat it! I love your inflection as you read...so beautiful to listen to. Were you trained, by any chance, or does it just come naturally? Thank you for another great vlog! Pam

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you so much, Pam! It really is amazing that flax can be used both as food and as a material for weaving into cloth! I'm glad you enjoy listening to me reading - I haven't had any training, it just seems to be the way it comes out! See you next time!

[@MandyJudge]

Hi Helen, I am new to your channel and really enjoyed learning about tatting. I lso enjoyed the story you read and would likr to hear more. Loved your compary and I will be joining you again. Take care, Mandy

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you for joining me, Mandy - I'm so glad you enjoyed spending time in my company! And I'm glad you enjoyed the story - I was a bit worried about it not being interesting enough! x

[@Ravencall]

Maybe if I had your lovely mum giving me encouragement and tips I might have been more successful with tatting, but I'm afraid that my brain would be thinking about the other speedier projects I might be working on. But who knows, my little collection of tatting shuttles and linen thread may tempt me again some day. Speaking of linen- I found your little old book very interesting. Occasionally I'll spin/weave in public for historical events. Children are very drawn to weaving and looms, and they always want to try my spinning wheel (sorry, kids) The more patient ones will attempt to spin with the spindles. It gives them a taste of how much labor was involved to produce thread and yarn long ago.

[@mousiemakespod]

I loved hearing about your occasional opportunity to spin and weave at historical events, and interesting that children are genuinely interested in these skills! I feel very fortunate that my mum was able to sit at my side and help me to have a go at tatting. You’re right, though, it’s definitely not a craft to do if you want a project to be finished very quickly! But it’s a lovely thing to do if you feel like taking life a little more slowly and combine it with learning something new! And thank you - I really do appreciate the lovely comments that you leave! x

[@heathertucker7056]

This was lovely to see your Mum explaining tatting. I had heard of it but never really knew what one did and how it worked! So interesting seeing all the shuttles. This was a real nostalgia episode and so very interesting. Thank you Helen.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Heather - I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Sometimes I make a video and wonder whether anyone will find it interesting - so it's lovely to get positive feedback, thank you. xx

[@vonmyc]

I’ve just found your KZbin channel and absolutely love your storytelling. It and the book is fabulous, I wanted to hear more. Also I loved watching your mam teach you tatting. I would also love to see more of that, my nanna taught me when I was about 12 but I’ve only recently bought a tatting shuttle to have another go. I had my nannas tortoise shell shuttle but sadly it was in a tea chest that went missing when we moved abroad. Thanks again for a wonderful video and it’s nice to hear a familiar accent from home.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a lovely comment! It's great that you are having a go at tatting again - definitely not the easiest of crafts but producing such wonderful delicate shapes and patterns!

[@GagaKnits]

Hi Helen. For some reason I thought tatting was something to do with making rugs! Although interesting I don't think I'll be giving it a go. Far to fiddly. I loved the 1940s weekend clips. That caravan with leaded windows and the fashions. I would also have loved a Silver Cross pram. Thanks as always for sharing such a variety of things. X

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Anita, I'm glad you now know what tatting is! I did enjoy having a go at it but I'm pretty sure it won't be my new hobby... definitely rather a fiddly thing to do though amazing to watch my mum doing it. Wasn't that old caravan beautiful? The couple who owned it said they still use it for holidays! I loved the Silver Cross pram, too. See you next time xx

[@lindashields5939]

What a fun and interesting episode this has been! I’ve always been fascinated with tatting and it was lovely to see the bits you filmed with your mother. I loved, loved, loved your reading of the book. I wish that we did more of the “explaining” of the hows and whys of everyday things to our children. I really think the children would be fascinated and enjoy it. I don’t think that most adults and children really stop to think about how we get the things that we have around us and use use daily. That book is a true treasure! Loved your “look back in time” this week. Thank you. salam wa sa’aadah

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Linda - I'm so glad that you enjoyed all the things that I shared with you this week. I was so worried that the flax story might seem a bit boring, especially as I didn't have many illustrations to go with it! So I'm very relieved that you enjoyed it! And you're right, so many of us don't stop to think about how the things around us are made. The book from 1900 was such a great find! See you next time xx

[@GumboGirl13]

Another lovely video from you, Helen! Your mum is so talented. How beautiful that she shared tatting with you. The story about flax was fun. The drawings are so beautiful. I loved seeing them. Thank you so much again for a most interesting podcast. ❤

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you - I'm so glad you enjoyed the things I shared today. It was lovely to sit with my mum while she showed me how to tat. I'm glad you enjoyed the flax story, too. See you next time! x

[@lynnyvonnestwo]

Hello Helen I Found Your Channel Through Penelope’s chinwag, Love Your Channel I’ve Just Finished Watching Your Holiday With Your Mum, The Cottage Looks So Lovely, Tatting My Mum Had An Aunty That Did Tatting Round Handkerchiefs I Still Have Some, It’s Something I’ve Always Wonted To Learn But It’s Not Easy, Have Tried With The Long Needle Method But It’s Not For Me, Not Tried With A Shuttle Though, I Have Subscribed To Your Channel Till Next Time Happy Crafting Lynn X

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you for joining me, Lynn! I love watching Penelope's Chinwag, too, and we both enjoy sharing a mixture of topics! I'm glad you enjoyed watching the little holiday that I my mum and I had. It's interesting to hear about your experiences of tatting, and you're right, it's not an easy craft. How lovely that you have some of your aunty's handkerchiefs that she tatted around! x

[@janelendle3027]

What a lovely podcast! I’ve tried tatting and it is very difficult! I have my grandma’s silver tatting shuttle with her initials engraved on it. What a keepsake! I enjoyed your story and the beautiful music! Thanks so much! 💗

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Jane! What a lovely keepsake to have from your grandma. I'm glad you enjoyed the story and the music, too! x

[@wendycarter5973]

I’m a new subscriber I know I’m going to like your channel xxx

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you, Wendy, for joining me! I hope you enjoy catching up on a few more episodes (there are quite a few to choose from!) xxx

[@DLBard-bv2nd]

Hi Helen, my Grand Mother did a lot of tatting, lace work, crochet, knitting and sewing. I regret that I did not show interest in tatting & lace work. She made beautiful things that I have inherited and now treasure. I was curious, do you know how to make fringe? I am wanting to learn the art of replicating fringe for restoration work on a few garments. Thank you for sharing your Mother & her talents with us. Cheers. 💖

[@mousiemakespod]

How lovely that you have some of the things that your Grandmother made and can now treasure! I don’t think I’ve ever actually made a fringe before! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave me a lovely comment! x

[@conniekrick4447]

Hello, Helen. I too am a new subscriber, having just "discovered" you, and I LOVE your podcasts! I'm from Pennsylvania but am an enthusiastic lover of all things British.I started with Episode One, and now am happily engaged in binge watching you. You certainly are a multi-talented person. Have you ever let your viewers see you playing the piano? If so, I would appreciate knowing in what episode(s).

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi Connie, and thank you for joining me and taking the time to leave a comment! I love it that we can connect in this way, across the ocean from each other. I haven't often actually shown myself playing the piano but I know I definitely do that in Episode 75, A Day in my Life, and more recently, when I chat about my new piano in Episode 134. I think there's one more episode where you can see me playing, but at the moment I can't find which one! I hope you enjoy catching up with my many videos! x

[@conniekrick4447]

Helen, I absolutely AM enjoying catching up! I find myself thinking, "I need a little Helen today." So glad I found you! You are so talented. When we watch your videos, it is YOU playing the background music; when you color something, you first of all DREW that picture. When we go along on a trip, we follow a map meticulously drawn and colored by YOU. Quite remarkable! [I can see why you appreciate Katie Green Bean.] Incidentally, you described ME to a T in your reflections on introversion. Back to binge watching you; thank you for those episode references to where you are playing the piano.Thank YOU for taking the time to reply.@@mousiemakespod

[@maswannie]

Tatting looks fascinating but I don’t think I could learn it from a book. Can I borrow your Mum, Helen? I also enjoyed the reading about flax - not long or boring at all.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you! It's definitely easier to learn a new skill with someone at your side! I'm relieved that you didn't think the flax story wasn't too long or boring!! xx

[@GingerCatCrochet]

You're very brave to try tatting and your mum is obviously talented. I think it would be too fiddly for me! 😊

[@mousiemakespod]

Tatting is definitely rather a fiddly thing and my mum made it look so easy! But I'm not sure that I'll be taking it up as a new hobby although I love the delicate lace-like things that can be produced. x

[@emerlynch3294]

What is the piano music it's lovely.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thank you! If you're able to access the description box under my videos, I always leave details of the things that I play. In this episode, I played a piece called 'Progress' by Burgmuller for the tatting video, and for the 1940s video, two folk tunes: Believe Me and My Bonnie Lies over the Ocean.

[@annetteduggan7]

i tried tatting years ago and like you could do the basic stitch and make it in to a ring but as i was learning from a book i couldn't understand from a book how to do the next stage. ,

[@mousiemakespod]

I agree, it's not always easy learning from a book! It's possibly easier to learn from a KZbin tutorial although I failed to learn to crochet until I actually sat right next to my mum and had her showing me! x

[@bevabberley1524]

I just couldn’t get to grips with tatting 🤣🤣

[@mousiemakespod]

I can totally understand that! I found it very tricky, even with my mum sitting right there next to me! x

[@SessionMom]

Your mum sounds like she has an Irish lilt. Is she Irish?

[@mousiemakespod]

Hi! My mum is actually from the north east of England but it's definitely quite a lilting accent!

[@EvieO1950]

Enjoyed the table cloth story. So nice that your Mom shared her tatting. You did well on your first go. I have my Mamaw’s tatting shuttle but never could get the hang of it. I did manage to learn a little needle tatting from @SpringTheFiberEnthusiast. I was interested in earrings and bookmarks.

[@mousiemakespod]

Thanks, Evelyn - I enjoyed trying something new though it really was rather tricky and I think I will probably stick to knitting and crochet! Maybe I should take a look at needle tatting? I love the idea of making a lacy bookmark! x