Macramé 

Macramé is a craft that involves knotting cords or strings together to create an object. Anyone can make a variety of things using easy knotting techniques. Making practical objects or more decorative ones, from bracelets to plant hangers to curtains, anyone can enjoy this craft which allows to discover many culturally enriching notions on knotting as an art form. While the art of knot tying began as a necessity in ancient times, knots have evolved and taken on new meanings.

Re-emerging after having a moment in the 70s and 80s, today macramé shoulders the minimalist and mindfulness movement. It’s very popular on Instagram and successful businesses are being built on the craft.

Macramé techniques can strengthen your fine motor skills and coordination. It is used as an art therapy activity as it can be very calming, soothing to the body, mind and spirit thus have therapeutic benefits. Many use it as a meditation technique or just an expression of creativity.

Macramé as a word itself comes from the Arabic that refers to ‘knotting crossways’. Macramé developed through the years, it can have simple or develop into very intricate patterns, expanded as pieces used to embellish clothes or decorate homes. It is viewed as a heirloom technique passed down through generations. The Japan Macramé Association confirms that tying strings together and braiding has had a long history in the country.

“In Aomori prefecture in Japan, a braided plant vine and bracelet were excavated from the Sannai Maruyama Burial Site…dating to the Jomon period (c. 1300-300BC)”

Japan Macramé Association

My research as well as conversations with staff revealed the important historic house museums’ connection to Japanese art.

As a way to pay homage to the artistry and culture, I’m including these distinctive traditions in a mini workshop as a way to complement this project .

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