Macrame is one of the most versatile techniques in the crafting world, but it fell into disuse for many years. Since its resurgence, macrame has been largely pigeonholed into 1960s-era hemp jewelry, rough plant holders and decorative owls. The beauty of macrame is that it can be done with practically anything in which someone can tie knots. Some materials may require a little more skill and comfort with the knots used, but macrame can be used to make anything from book covers to bikinis with just a little bit of practice and a few knots in your repertoire.
Jewelry and clothes
Unusual macrame projects can begin with the wide world of wearables. Jewelry can be made using micro-macrame techniques with embroidery floss, silk cord, cotton crochet thread and even jewelry wire. Add in beads, buttons or other embellishments for an even more unique look.
Macrame clothes can be created from yarn, wool or even Spandex blends for skin-tight looks or swimsuits. While patterns for macrame clothing can be difficult to come by, experimenting with various knots in sizes comparable to knitting or crochet stitches will allow you to use stitch counts from those types of patterns and adapt them to macrame. Alternatively, take some body measurements and just let your imagination run wild with freehand macrame projects.
For very unusual macrame projects, try turning it into a recycling project at the same time. Use plastic grocery bags to create macrame hats, purses and beach bags. Hemp cord or even baling twine offers an excellent medium for creating decorative sandal tops or water bottle carriers for a day at the beach, and even some types of long tough grass or other vegetation can be used for decorative carryalls.
Home decor
Love the look of doilies, lacy curtains, handmade afghans or braided rugs? These are all time-consuming projects that, done in a traditional way, require very different techniques and skills to make each one. With macrame, all it takes is different materials; though the knots used are the same, the overall effect is very different with each new material.
Experiment with strips of leftover fabric to create rugs or throw pillow covers, or even use a soft fleece to create cozy blankets and lap covers. The same crochet cotton used in traditional doilies can also be applied to macrame projects, and macrame curtains may be a great use of that organza that's just been hanging around the craft room for ages.
Stiff cords can be knotted into macrame baskets, bowls, potpourri holders and all other manner of home container. Short on shelf space or have other organizational challenges? Use macrame to create that new toy net for your child's room, a mesh hanging basket to hold fresh produce or even a crafty place to put magazines. The sky truly is the limit with unusual macrame projects, and it may be surprising to discover just how many different uses can be found for this age-old technique.
By collecting a few simple supplies and learning a couple of basic knots, you can attempt to duplicate beautifully crafted macrame patterns for purses found in stores and online right in your own home. |
Macrame has earned its place as a timeless technique for all manner of crafts and artwork, from tapestries to jewelry. This exceptionally versatile process of tying decorat...click here for more. |
There are many different types of macrame knots to consider when learning this fine art of knotting. Here are a few examples of the variations you can choose from. |
Once you've gathered the basic supplies and follow these helpful macrame belts instructions, you'll be able to make beautiful belts that you can wear and dress up. |
Creating macramé jewelry is an easy way to ease into the art of knotting, while also making something that's practical and fashionable at the same time. |
These simple macramé instructions for a key chain will have you creating art out of knots in no time. |
Macramé bracelet patterns are always in style, and they are a breeze to make. |
You can get as creative as you want with these decorative indoor macrame plant hangers by including gems or jewelry for an extra sparkle. |
Check out our macrame guide to learn how to macrame with creative macrame patterns including great ideas for macrame belts, jewelry, knots, plant hangers and more. |
Instructions on how to macrame with basic half knots and square knots. |
