Macramé is a technique making textile by means of knotting materials such as cotton, hemp and yarn. The art originated from the Arabs in the 13th century; later it was spread to other countries and became sailors’ favorite pastime. Today, macramé is used in making accessories and fashion items such as belts, key holder, friendship bracelets, and bags. Thinking of buying a gift for a friend, why not create your own macramé accessory? Or perhaps you can make one and use it yourself. You can add wooden or glass beads or shells to make your accessory extra special!
Before you begin your first project, practice the basic knots first. There are many other macramé knots, some are a bit complicated but when you have already mastered the basic square knot, doing the other knots would be so easy.
To create basic half knot/ square knot, be ready with two long cords. Fold each in half, place loop of each cord in front of a dowel, an extra cord or a ring; pull loop behind the dowel; pull the two ends of the cord through the loop; and tighten. Next is put the right cord behind the two center cords and over the left cord. Pass the left cord over the two center cords and through the loop formed by the right cord. Now you have a half knot. Take note that the right cord is now on the left and the left cord is now on the right. To create a square knot, repeat the process. This time you begin from the left.
By Khristine
