Macrame's Comeback

The craft of knotting in assorted geometric matrixes without the use of hooks, needles, or hoops is the art referred to as macrame.

The skill of macrame goes back to the thirteenth century. The word macrame is Arabic in origin meaning "fringe". It's believed that Arabian weavers started the skill by knotting the extra fabric at the edges of loamed fabric. From these origins it eventually made it to Italy and France in the early fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. Sailors took up the skill as it was a favored way to pass some of the long hours out at sea. The principal knots that the sailors utilized are the basic knots of modern macrame...the half knot, square knot, and the half hitch knot. The sailors passed on their skill to the Chinese who harmonized the skill to their own particular customs and culture. The skill became fashionable with the British during the nineteenth century.

Over the years the skill fell to neglect. It was revived in the 1960s and '70s, which brought revitalization to the ancient skill. Its popularity waned some in the '80s and '90s, but the start of the 21st century has brought back its popularity into full swing, with immense creative possibilities for the hobbyist, artist, and appreciator of the many differing macrame products.

Now days the hobby and skill of macrame means different things to different people. For many the skill is beneficial in a number of ways. Tying the differing knots can strengthen hands and arms. Creating a macrame project can be quite calming to the mind, body, and soul! Macrame projects require few implements and require supplies without any chemicals or fumes; it is without question an earth-friendly, natural skill.

Types of macrame projects vary from jewelry to plant hangers to home decorations to wall hangers to purses and to belts. The various colors and textures of macrame make for a a broad variety to choose from. Materials range from different thickness of jute and hemp, to twine, colored nylon and polyester fibers. Not only are there wooden beads in projects, but glass and ceramic beads are also being incorporated into projects these days as well.

Macrame has developed...yes it's all a part of the imaginative process enduring on many levels. Macrame is therapeutic, fun, creative, and satisfying for not only the expert but the novice as well. For those who simply want to use and enjoy the finished products there are more and more choices for superior macrame to complement the decor of your home, wardrobe, and personal style!