Macrame beginner - any tips and tricks?

Chloe_G

I'm going to start macrame - does anyone have any advice on where to buy the cord or what weight of cord?  I want to make a bag.  Thank you!

OutdoorQueen

My local Range has this in stock:
https://www.therange.co.uk/arts-and-crafts/sewing-and-haberdashery/knitting-and-crochet/yarn-and-wool/art-studio-macrame-cotton-wool

I’ve also used Wooly What Knot
https://www.woollywhatknot.co.uk/

There is also this site, had the link saved but can’t remember if I’ve ordered from them:
https://www.macrameuk.com/shop

Brie

basically you can you use any cord/string/flexible material.  I used to use whatever cheap cord/string was available that suited the project that I was doing.  So kitchen or garden twine will work and may very well be much cheaper than something labelled "macrame".  

Don't forget to check out charity shops as many people start things and give up and donate the supplies.  

Chloe_G

Thanks - will check out the charity shops tomorrow. I have some twine but I'm going to look for something thicker.

RAS

Do you have any instructions? Different projects are best with different twines. So look at what type's suggested. Or go to the local library/on line and look up projects you like the look of?

sarah_diamond

Some local yarn shops might stock the cord, a brand to look out for is Bobbiny, that's what I've used in the past and they do a range of colours. It depends what you want to make really for the thickness of the cord. 3-5mm is probably best for beginners, I've made hanging pot holders with 5mm I think.

T-shirt yarn is another option, a bit more forgiving possibly, I've crocheted with it.

A tip I learnt was to use a clothes hanger to hang the macrame in front of you - plenty of how-to videos online, Utube etc to show you how to do it, Good Luck!

Chloe_G

I scoured the charity shops on Sunday but didn't have any luck. Our local yarn, remnant and craft shops have all closed down.  I wouldn't even find any normal string in Sainsbury's or Poundland! My pattern is calling for 5mm 3 strand cord.

The clothes hanger is a great idea as I have plenty of hooks that I could hang it from.  I've never heard of T shirt yarn but I shall have a look.

Thanks!

sarah_diamond

Chloe_G said:

I scoured the charity shops on Sunday but didn't have any luck. Our local yarn, remnant and craft shops have all closed down.  I wouldn't even find any normal string in Sainsbury's or Poundland! My pattern is calling for 5mm 3 strand cord.

The clothes hanger is a great idea as I have plenty of hooks that I could hang it from.  I've never heard of T shirt yarn but I shall have a look.

Thanks!

What area are you in?

Chloe_G

Essex - I just read about making your own T shirt yarn so I think It'll give that a go at the weekend!

sarah_diamond

Ah ok, I'm not sure on local places in Essex, I'm in South Wales.

Good luck with trying to make your own t-shirt yarn! Please report back with macrame pics

Chloe_G

sarah_diamond said:

Ah ok, I'm not sure on local places in Essex, I'm in South Wales.

Good luck with trying to make your own t-shirt yarn! Please report back with macrame pics

Will do! (However long it takes!)