Learn how to make over seventy macramé knots and small repeat patterns, then use them to create a wide range of projects. Each knot is shown in a close-up photograph with clear step-by-step diagrams showing how they are tied. Starting with the basics, the knots progress on to more complicated and complex designs, but the clear diagrams make it a cinch to follow along. This invaluable guidebook covers the different types of threads or cords available, and shows a range of clasps and other findings and beads to use in your knotwork. It also includes tons of expert tips like how to set up your work board or how to keep track of the cord ends for less confusion. Thirty-three projects featured in the book range from simple jewelry like a classic friendship bracelet and watch straps to more complex ones like bags and baskets.
Great book for learning knots and how to put them together into patterns. None of the projects really look like anything I’d want to make, though. Focus is much more on the 1970s-style jute twine style of macrame, rather than the 2020 boho social media influencers.
There are 22 sennit patterns (if you don't know what sennit is, just imagine a friendship bracelet) and 42 panel patterns (something like wall displays). There were other macrame patterns such as bags, brooch, jewellery, mats.
An important thing to know is that they have limited home projects (hanging shelf, plant hanger, pillow cases, etc). Also, they are a pattern book- it assumes that you have a foundation of macrame to begin with! They do explain ALL type of knots used in the projects, but here's where the problem lies: when you want to make a project, say a bag, the pattern will tell you to go to page X and Y because the bag was a variation of patterns that can be found in page X and Y. Then when you open page X, it will tell you to go to another page because it is a variation of a type of knot A and B and so on! Complex projects can lead you jumping pages over 8x!
P.S. If you prefer a book for home & garden, then I'd suggest ' Macramé for Beginners and Beyond' by Amy Mullins & Marnia Ryan Raison. I would still think you should own this Macramé pattern book by Marchen first though☺️
I'm going to be straight up honest and say that I have not made anything out of this book yet. I've had it for a while, fully intending to try to use it because macrame is very much the kind of activity that I would do in my spare time (I'm kind of lacking in macrame essentials though, which I plan to rectify tomorrow by visiting my local craft store). I am, however, the type of person that likes to give handmade presents as gifts, and the holidays are coming up, so I decided to get my book out and give it a look. It has lots of patterns for things that would make great gifts (including snowflake and pine tree tapestry patterns). And the patterns and knot instructions look super simple to follow (although I may still manage to screw them up because I'm notoriously bad at following patterns).
So I will update this review after I actually get something made, but for now this is where it stands.
P.S. If you are a family member or friend that thinks I may be making you something for Christmas, remember that Christmas in July is a thing :)
I received this book as part of the Goodreads First Reads Program for the purpose of a fair review.
Overview: Finally, a macramé book that I might be able to use to figure out this craft. This book has diagrams of the knots, gives patterns, and includes tips on how to accomplish the best effects of your macramé projects.
Likes: Some of the tote bags and the handles look like they will be fun to work with. Also, each knot has detailed instructions, as well as pictures to let you know when you are doing it right.
Dislikes: I have to admit that I’m not too good at following chart patterns. Let’s hope this is fixed soon as these patterns look like fun.
Conclusion: This book will help bring something new to your projects. Whether you are a beginner, a master, or just someone who wants another project style to stand out, then this book is for you.