What is Macrame?

by Ulrike Pearson June 28, 2024

What is macramé and where did it come from?

Macramé has been popular for centuries as a method of crafting a textile or various decorations that use several types of knots to form a basic shape. It is an easy and affordable way to add personality and decorate your home. With an infinite way of combining various types of knots, you can create both aesthetic and functional pieces. Macramé is usually either tied on a wooden frame (a macrame board) or hung from the ceiling.

Macramé is done without any tools, just using your hands. You can use macrame to create plant hangers, clothing, wall hangings, dream catchers, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, curtains, tablecloths, coasters, tassels, keychains, bookmarks, belts, etc. - the possibilities are endless. You can accentuate your pieces by adding beads, charms, seashells, etc. Once you have mastered the basic macramé knots, you can research more complicated ones or make up your own. You can use different cord sizes and colours. Material options include leather strips, cotton rope, yarn, jute, ribbon, nylon cord, and a popular hemp cord.

Macrame is a technique of tying different kinds of knots to produce decorative items. The true beauty comes from the fact that it is done by hand, not the machine. It can be very detailed, and anyone can do it with a small initial investment and a little practice. It can be a great way to relax and create beautiful pieces for your home or offer as a gift.

If a piece includes at least one macrame knot, it can be considered macrame art. The projects are pieced together with several knots or joined with other techniques, usually knitting or weaving.

The History of Macrame

It is considered that macramé art originated back in the 13th century, from the Arabic weavers. They used the knot-tying technique to decorate the fringes on the veils and shawls. Many believe this art dates back even further, to 3rd century China, where hanging, lanterns, and ceremonial garments are considered an ancient form of macrame.

Moors and European sailors are those to blame for the spreading of macramé. They used this art form as a way to pass long days on the sea. This art reached its peak in the Victorian era when many young ladies taught macrame – it was a hugely popular hobby.

The macrame meaning and name itself are considered to come either from the Arabic word 'migramah,'meaning ornamental fringe or from the Turkish word 'makrama,' meaning towel or napkin.

During the 70s, it became popular again when belts, bikinis, furnishings, and plant hangers exploded into the scene, following the popular hippie movement. The expansion of macramé was short-lived – it only lasted until the 1980s. However, with the expansion of Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and other social media channels, macramé became increasingly popular. It is a must-have in any boho home today.