Steps in Making Macrame

Macramé is a craft that involves a series of geometric knots.

Macramé is the art of making decorative knotted items and, according to the website Stitchnsave, has been around in its current form since the 13th century. It was picked up by sailors of various cultures to pass time, and because the materials, rope or twine, were easy to come by on ships. Currently macramé uses twine, string or cord, usually made from cotton or jute, although many other fibers are suitable for the craft. Macramé is a relatively simple craft to learn and is suitable for most adults and school-age children.

Things You'll Need

• Macramé board
• T-pins or straight pins
• Tape
• Glue or wax
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Macramé cord or twine
• Dowel (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare your work area. A macramé board can be purchased, or you can make one out of foam core, cardboard or other materials that will accept pins. Gather all of your needed supplies together in one spot.

2. Prepare your cords. The ends of cords can fray, so use tape, glue or candle wax to secure them prior to starting your macramé project.

3. Mount the cords. Using either a dowel or a cord strung horizontally across your macramé board, mount the macramé cords securely. The site Handcrafted by Elaine suggests using either the lark's head knot or double half hitch knots.

4. Learn basic techniques. While there are hundreds of knots and variations, the foundation of macramé is built on a few basic knots, including the square knot, double half hitch and lark's head. Practice these techniques prior to starting on a project. Instructions for these knots can be found in the references section below.

5. Find a pattern and begin. Macramé beginners should start working from a pattern before attempting to dive into design. Bookstores sell macramé craft books and the Internet is a valuable resource for free macramé patterns. Choose a basic pattern and use the techniques you've learned.

References

• History of Macramé
• Macramé Essentials
• Macramé Instruction Guide
• Square Knot Instructions
• Double Half Hitch Instructions
• Lark's Head Instructions

Resources

• Olga's Macramé Hobby Site
• Free Macramé Patterns