How to Macrame Hemp
According to hemp.com, hemp is a versatile plant that is used for its seeds, fiber and oil. The fibers that are produced from hemp are often used to macramé, or making something by knotting. Macramé can be used to create an unlimited number of things, from jewelry to shirts to belts and blankets and, of course, wall hangings. Macramé is very simple; and once you know a few basic knots, the things you can make are limitless.
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Instructions
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Cut four pieces of hemp. To learn the most basic macramé knots start out with four pieces of hemp. To be safe, cut them at equal lengths even though the two middle strings will probably not use as much length. You will tie the four pieces together at the top, or you can cut two longer pieces and double them over and knot to form four strings. When first learning, it is best to start out with shorter strands, roughly a foot long. Note: Hemp can be purchased at art supply stores, craft shops and art sections of stores such as Wal-Mart.
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The most basic macramé knot is the square knot which is done by taking the strand farthest to the left and crossing it over the two middle strands. Hold it across the middle strands and take the right strand and pull it through the loop the left strand made. Carefully pull your knot tight. Then alternate and pull the left strand through the right strand. This knot creates a basic flat knot. If you do not alternate and pull the left through the right each time you knot, it will form a twisting knot. You should practice making knots before you commit to making something.
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Begin making different variations or products. Once you have the knot down, you can cut additional hemp and macramé a simple piece of jewelry or add beads to the center strings and braid around them. Also you can add additional pieces of hemp to either the inside or outside strings for thicker products. Or learn other knots such as the alternating knot where you take eight strings, braid the first four twice, braid the second four twice then combine them and braid the middle four twice. After making six knots, start at the beginning to form a thick design pattern.
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Tips & Warnings
You can make it easier to braid by securing the top of the hemp with a nail or clip and the middle two strands with tape or a clip to keep them secure.
If you are doing a square knot and forget which side you need to loop next, look for a bump along the side to show which side you previously braided.
You can create more complicated things by learning different knots or combining main strands in different patterns using the alternating method.
Be careful when your skin contacts the hemp fiber. It can be jagged; and if pulled though your fingers too fast, it can leave small, paper cut-like abrasions that are painful.
