Macrame Is Back, With a Modern Twist
This textile art form, both decorative and functional, was popular long before the funky ’70s
Laura Gaskill
14 April 2016
Houzz Contributor. I cover decorating ideas, Houzz tours & the monthly home maintenance checklist. My favorite pieces to write center around the emotional aspects of home and savoring life's simple pleasures. Decluttering course + discount for Houzzers: https://www.lauragaskill.com/welcome-houzzers
Houzz Contributor. I cover decorating ideas, Houzz tours & the monthly home maintenance... More
Though many people associate macrame with 1970s crafty creations (often involving owls), it in fact has a long, rich history as both a decorative and functional art form. Sailors made macrame objects (such as hammocks and belts) during their downtime, and, like crochet, macrame was sometimes used as a less costly lace-like adornment for clothing and decor. Today macrame is back in favor, revitalized by modern makers who are putting their own stamp on this age-old craft.
Bed wall drama. Hanging against a bold blue wall, this jute-colored macrame piece acts as a statement headboard, taking center stage in the room. When paired with clean-lined furnishings and a modern color palette, macrame can add a natural, tactile touch.
How macrame is made. Macrame textiles are made through knotting instead of weaving. The knots can be combined to create intricate patterns, and the piece often, though not always, includes a length of fringe at the bottom. Today’s crafters pull inspiration from macrame designs of the past but update them with a modern twist — whether that’s a unique shape or a fresh color combination.
Nursery decor. Macrame has a soft, touchable look that makes it especially appealing in a nursery or child’s room. Paired here with arrow-print wallpaper and a richly colored rug, this wall hanging adds to the fresh, eclectic look. Just remember not to hang anything where baby can reach it from the crib, for safety reasons.
Plant hangers. All the rage in the 1970s, macrame plant hangers are making a comeback. The new versions are simpler than the over-the-top vintage versions, and you’ll see them in bright, unexpected hues.
4 fresh ways to use macrame plant hangers:
- Hang a vase of flowers.
- Hang a jar filled with paintbrushes or pens above your desk.
- Hang a handmade ceramic bowl filled with fruit.
- Hang a glass vessel with an air plant.
Crafty wall hanging. Craving a change from the usual framed artwork? A macrame wall hanging can be a welcome alternative to art prints and photos. If you’re a bit wary of trying the trend, look for a small wall hanging in a neutral hue and place it on a richly colored wall for a modern look.
Outdoor decor. Bring a touch of bohemian style to your porch or patio with a row of hanging macrame planters and fiber art. Because macrame is typically made from natural fibers, it’s best to use it in a covered area.
Modern fiber arts. There’s a growing fiber arts movement beyond macrame, including weaving, needle felting and more. Keep your eye out in independent shops and at craft fairs for works from up-and-coming fiber artists.
Tell us: Is macrame for you? Share your thoughts and pictures in the Comments.
More
15 Creative and Crafty Spring Project Ideas
DIY Project: How to Make a ‘Kokedama’ String Garden
More
15 Creative and Crafty Spring Project Ideas
DIY Project: How to Make a ‘Kokedama’ String Garden
Related Stories
Renovating Advice
How Do I Find, Assess & Hire the Right People for My Renovation?
Do you need a kitchen designer or a joiner? An architect or an interior designer? Find out with our essential reno guide
Full Story
Renovation Guides
What Key Measurements & Room Dimensions Should I Know for a Reno?
Read practical information about key room measurements and minimum clearances for fittings and fixtures in every room
Full Story
Kitchens
How Practical Is... Handleless Joinery?
Handleless joinery is popular in modern homes. But how suitable are cupboards that can only be opened with a touch?
Full Story
Most Popular
12 Decorating Tips to Make Any Bedroom Look Better
By Anne Ellard
Want to know how to make your bedroom look better? Here are 12 great tricks
Full Story
Renovation Guides
Room by Room: Experts on Ways to Avoid Common Renovation Blunders
From the kitchen to the garden, and all areas in between, experts identify common mistakes and share priceless insights
Full Story
Interior Design
The Golden Rules of Proportion: Decor Laws You Need to Know
An interior designer reveals the essential rules for achieving a perfectly balanced interior
Full Story
Most Popular
5 Reasons Your Bathroom Smells Funky (and How to Fix the Problem)
A plumber reveals five reasons your bathroom might smell like sewage or emanate a musty odour
Full Story
Most Popular
From Planning to Pendants: Kitchen Lighting Essentials
By Joanna Tovia
This valuable guide will give you all you need to know about choosing kitchen lighting for fabulous form and function
Full Story
Most Popular
The Full Picture: How High Should Your TV Be?
By Matt Clawson
We look at an important question to consider when locating your television: how high should you set it?
Full Story
Bathrooms
All the Dimensions You Need to Know for Your Bathroom Makeover
Fit everything comfortably in a small or medium-size bathroom by knowing standard dimensions for fixtures and clearances
Full Story
I crocheted a dress for my prospective granddaughter and within hours my nephews wife requested one the same for her daughter.
love the macrame hanging behind the bed. given me an idea. we have our waterbed under the window. Yes I know bad feng shui etc. but its there and we cannot move it. I have sheer curtains on this window with a bamboo type blind. but would very much now like to change. A macrame hanging there could be interesting, just for a change. hmmm.... brain will have to come up with something.
I like the dark blue wall of the first pic.