Is It A Find?

Dear Dan, In my Grandmother's old sewing machine, I found this item in one of the drawers. I am curious of what it may have been used for. I have been sewing and knitting for decades and never have seen such an item. Could you please help identifying, dating and providing a value on my item? Thank you, Sarah Greeting Sarah, Your mysterious item is a 19th century tatting shuttle. Tatting shuttles are used to make loops and knots with thread to form lace for collars, tablecloths, and trim for textiles. The exact date of the invention of the tatting shuttle is unknown, but was first recorded uses were in the early 1800s. It was initially utilized by sailors to make netting, specialized knots and also laced presents to bring home to their significant others. Its use eventually became domesticated and patterns began to be printed in women's publications. The popularity of tatting with a shuttle peaked in the late 1800s and by the mid-1900s it had almost completely waned. Shuttles came in many forms, mostly made of ivory, sterling silver or metal. Your example was patented somewhat locally on Aug. 4, 1868 by Ira H. Stockwell and Lizzie Goodwin of Worcester, Massachusetts. There is still a market for antique shuttles, as they are small, easy to collect and come in many different variations. Some of the rarest models can command upwards of $1,000 and while your example may only be worth around $50, it is a somewhat rare find. I personally do not know of anyone who actually has the skills or knowledge to use an antique shuttle, as it seems that most lace is made today through needle tatting. They do still make shuttles today, which are mostly made of plastic and differ by having a hooked needle at the end. I appreciate the time you spent to write in and perhaps you could make use your Grandmother's item to learn a new skill.