um..

[kittytat]

I know this is a stupid question...but...quietly says.....when pattern says to start with 5ds's from ball thread....how???? The ball is extremely un-cooperative!!!

Imagine a kitten chasing after a ball of yarn...that is me fumbling over the shuttle and ball!!

[Batty Tatter]

I assume you are starting with a chain. That's what you make with the ball side. I've been known to make one little knot, or maybe a slip knot (then you could remove it after). Then start your chain below the knot.

[kittytat]

I'm sorry, yes starting with a chain. I dont quite understand what you mean sorry.

[Lynn]

Slip a paper clip, or a striver, or maybe a bobby pin on the thread. Hold this in your pinch and make the first knot right against it. This leaves a tiny picot, which is okay, since you'll probably have to join to this in the final step of this round anyway. What pattern are you doing? Read all the way through it. You'll probably find when and where you need to join up the ends, and this tiny beginning picot is perfect for that. If you have further queries, let us know. And let us know where to find your pattern. That will help us help you.

[AnneB]

Have a look at this, it might help: http://www.nuperelle.net/om/hvordan/Video/Buestart.wmv
The text is in Norwegian, but it say "Start by making a slipknot". At the end the slipknot is removed.

[kittytat]

Thank you both so much!!! Now I understand it!!! I am trying the tichband leaf in her tatalong.

http://umintsuru.blogspot.co.nz/2012...2-pattern.html

[Lynn]

Oh, well done, Anne. I never thought of that.

Kitty, so glad you get it now. This is a delightful pattern. Have fun with it, and let us see your progress.