Instructions on How to Make Macrame Handbags
Macrame is an art of weaving threads into knots by hand. This style is used in making handmade jewelry, clothing accessories and many other useful items. Macrame used to have a clear practical purpose as it was used by sailors to tie knots on fishing nets. Women used to make threads into knots to prevent them from fraying. Nowadays, many decorative objects are made in this style, some of which are pot hangers, curtains, rugs, lampshades and handbags.
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Instructions
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1
Cut the cords into equal lengths using scissors. They should be at least 3 to 4 yards in length.
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2
Lay the handle frame in front of you on a flat surface. Lay the cords by the frame.
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3
Fold one cord in half and hold the cord together just a bit off the top, so it forms a loop.
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4
Fold the small loop over the bottom edge of the handle frame, with your fingers still holding the bottom point of the small loop. Insert the two ends of the cord through the small loop. You have made a lark's head knot. Repeat this step with every cord that you have, along the bottom part of the handle frame.
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5
Hold the first four strands in your hand. Start from the left side and cross the first one over the second and third one. Then push it under the fourth string.
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6
Take the fourth strand and cross it over the second and the third one. Cross it over the first one and tighten the knot.
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7
Take the first strand and cross it over the second and third. Place it under the fourth one again.
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8
Take the fourth one and place it under the second and third. Place it over the first one and tighten the knot.
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Repeat steps 6 through 8 for the rest of the cords on the handle frame. Skip the first two strands when moving onto the second row. Leave the last two strands hanging, as well. Repeat these steps to make as many rows as possible, but leave a couple of inches at the end of each string.
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10
Take the second handle frame and tie the loose strands to it. Tie the right strand over the left one and the left one over the right one. Join the two handles by folding the handbag.
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Cut some shorter strands and join both sides of the handbag by making overhand knots. These knots are the ones you make as you tie your shoelaces.
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Tips & Warnings
Cover the ends of the ropes in transparent nail polish to protect the ends from fraying.
Make firm knots for extra support if you plan to make pot hangers, as they could fall and injure someone.
