For those of us old enough to remember the frenzied seventies, we often think back to disco balls, bell bottoms, hot pants, platform shoes, mood rings, fondue, and macramé. The latter was that crafting craze that crossed most socioeconomic lines, and inserted itself into our homes as knotted contraptions for hanging plants and glass top tables, tiered lampshades, belts, bags, and anything else that came to mind. Craft stores were filled with balls of jute and beads and many of us sported blisters and abrasions on fingers and hands: telltale signs of macramé-mania.
The craze died as quickly as it came, and for many it was good riddance. But as we have learned, history tends to repeat itself and macramé has re-emerged albeit to a more subtle degree. For the past five years, the craft has made a steady comeback. Modern bohemianism not only encompasses fashion and home decor, but an entire lifestyle focused on personal growth, spiritual development, and the importance of practicing feminine self-care.
Fibre arts are alive and well thanks to Instagram, Etsy, Pinterest, and other social and e-commerce sites. It’s only natural that macramé would make its way into our favourite hobby as well.