Why you should learn macramé
Macramé is a fun and easy way to get creative! A lot of people look at macramé hangings and art pieces and think "Wow, that looks so intricate and difficult!" But the truth is, once you know a few basic knots, the world is your oyster. Most pieces that you see are made of simple knots, such as the Larks Head, Square Knot and Overhand Knot. So why not jump in and see what you can make?
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Everyone learns differently; some people like to read the instructions and learn at their own pace, some need a visual guide, and some need to have a hands-on tutor to show them the ropes (literally!). That's why you can find patterns, videos and workshops all on this website to help you to learn the art of macramé.
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If your learning at home and come across any questions or get stuck, you can always email Courtney from Knot Calm to get some helpful tips: knotcalm@gmail.com
The history of macramé making
There are few different theories about the origins of macramé. Most people say that macramé is an ancient Arabic art of weaving from the 13th century used to adorn towel, clothing and fabrics, much like a fringe. It is said that the initial use of the fringes was on camels and horses, to keep flies away. The Weaving techniques travelled from north Africa to Spain and then spread into Italy, France and finally to the UK in the 17th century, where the queen taught the art to her ladies in waiting, making it popular and trendy.
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Others say that it was sailors that spread the weaving techniques around the world, on their voyages. Sailors would knot a variety of creations in their spare time, and then sell these at the ports. Some of the sailors would also sell their knotting techniques to the locals, causing a spread of the art form.
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It was most popular in the 1800s, and a very fashionable book called Sylvia’s Book of Macramé Lace taught every home how to make tablecloths, bedspreads, curtains and the like. The trend faded, but as we know popped back up in the 1970’s. Vogue published a book on how to macramé in the early 70’s which bought the ancient weaving techniques back to life in a new and exciting way. Macramé has again made a comeback over the last few years, but we are seeing many new and modern uses for the knotting art that we can assume the ancient Arabic culture would have never imagined!
I wonder what macrame will transform into next...
