Essential Tools for Shuttle Tatting
A Beginner's Guide to What You Actually Need to Start Lace Making
One of the things I love most about tatting is how simple the toolkit is. There’s no need for a big machine or studio setup—just a few thoughtful tools and a quiet moment to begin.
Whether you're brand new or circling back to lacework after a break, this article covers what you really need to get started.
1. A Lace Tatting Shuttle (or Needle)
Tatting can be done with either a shuttle or a long needle. In this post, I’m only covering shuttle tatting, since that’s the method I use—I don’t have personal experience with needle tatting.
A tatting shuttle is a small tool that holds your thread and allows you to form knots and loops in a controlled way. As you work, the shuttle passes over and under the thread from your hand, creating the series of double stitches that make up rings, chains, and joins. It’s simple in shape, but elegant in function—almost like a needle and thread rolled into one.
If you’re new to shuttle tatting, the first decision is whether you want a tatting shuttle with a pick, a shuttle with a hook, or a standard style with neither.
Pick-style shuttles are great for beginners—the pick makes it easier to undo stitches when you’re learning
Hook-style shuttles make it quick and seamless to join picots
Standard shuttles have a clean edge with no pick or hook, which some people prefer for comfort
None of these is better or worse—it’s all personal preference. When I tat with two shuttles, I like to use a hook shuttle for the core thread (which does most of the joining) and a pick-style shuttle for the ball thread.
Next, you’ll choose between post-style shuttles and bobbin-style shuttles:
A post-style shuttle has a fixed centre you wind the thread around—simple and dependable.
A bobbin-style shuttle has a removable bobbin, which is convenient if you often swap threads or want to pre-wind extras
If you’re looking for a solid, beginner-friendly option, I recommend the Moonlit shuttle (pictured above). It has a built-in hook for joins and doesn’t require separate bobbins. It’s currently my go-to shuttle.
2. Thread
Start with size 10 cotton cordonnet thread—it’s thick enough to clearly see your stitches and durable enough to hold its shape as you learn. Cordonnet thread is a type of polished crochet thread with a smooth finish and tight twist, making it ideal for tatting.
As you gain confidence, you can branch out into finer threads like size 20 or 30 for more delicate lace.
Choose a colour that makes you happy—practice always goes further when you enjoy working with it.
A quick tip: These little thread balls have a tendency to roll away and unravel while you work. When I’m tatting at home, I like to place the thread ball in a vintage teacup. It’s the perfect size to let the thread roll gently inside while staying put. A small bowl works just as well—completely optional, but a lovely little detail that makes things easier.
3. Scissors
A sharp, small pair of scissors is essential for trimming thread ends cleanly. Embroidery scissors or thread snips work best—something compact and precise.
4. Tapestry Needle or Crochet Hook (Optional)
You may see small crochet hooks recommended for helping with picot joins. I usually skip the extra tool by using a shuttle with a built-in hook (another reason I love the Moonlit). A tapestry needle, though, is still helpful for sewing in thread ends neatly when you finish a project.
5. A Small Storage Pouch
Tatting is wonderfully portable, so it’s worth keeping your tools together in a small case or pouch. Whether you tat at home or take your work on the go, it helps to keep things tidy and close at hand. I prefer a small pencil case as it easily fits a ball of tatting thread, a couple of shuttles and pair of small scissors.
Nice-to-Haves (Not Required, But Handy)
Once you're comfortable with the basic tatting technique, you might want to explore:
Beads: A little shimmer goes a long way. In my thread work, I often use Miyuki Seed Beads (11/0 or 15/0 delicas) and Swarovski or Preciosa crystal beads.
Blocking Supplies: Foam or cork board, pins, and light steam help finished lace hold its shape.
Stiffener: Especially helpful for lace jewelry or motifs that need extra structure.
A Thread Bowl: Optional, but handy if your thread likes to wander off mid-pattern.
Where to Next?
That’s really it—no expensive equipment, no long supply list. Just you, a shuttle, and a thread that catches your eye. If you're ready to try your first project, I share beginner-friendly tatting patterns and tutorials through my online store and my newsletter:
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And if you ever have questions about tools or techniques, you’re always welcome to reach out. Every piece of lace starts with a single thread—you just have to begin.
