Hi Kyrene,
I am so involved in many projects that include beading, hand-tied dreamcatchers, crochet, and quilting that I cannot take on another skill at this time -- but, if I did, tatting would be my choice. I have always been fascinated by the artistic and beautiful tatted items.
During some research not long ago (just out of curiosity) I came across a site that tells of the history of tatting. It is really very interesting. Just click on
History of Tatting for some great ideas.
Good luck with your research. The re-enactment group sounds like a lot of fun.