Fibre archeology ; macrame sampler

re-post April 2 2010

In the Sixties macrame was popular and this sampler (I've never seen one before) is enchanting in itself and for the memories it evokes.

Back then,  the father of all my children (then my husband) made an exquisite room divider in macrame from  heavy twine, about six feet by three feet.

Macrame was viewable:  wall hangings,  plant hangers,  clothing,  hammocks,  pillow covers,  jewelery etc.

This sampler is 12 by 3 inches.  Translated into 1:12 scale this is 12 feet by 3 feet and I am considering it for hanging in a stairwell or a two-storey room in my renewed interest in miniatures.

Or, maybe I will make one.

This is the best of the best book on macrame.  It was published in 1970 but it keeps appearing in thrift stores.

Mary Walker Phillips,  as with her other books,  has a love of as well as interest in the subject which comes across very satisfactorily.

She traces the history of macrame from 13th century Moors to 20th century Italian children,  from 15th century seamen to Victorian era queens.

She points out that only two knots are basically used and your lap your workplace.

The technique is clearly outlined and the projects range from decorative to practical.