Now, here’s a fun one. As a child of the 70’s, I’ve definitely done macrame, but not like this!
Micro Macrame uses very fine cord and small beads to create intricate jewelry pieces. No hemp rope or potted plants in sight. Annika DeGroot has created a nice range of projects – simple things to get you into the craft, leading up to bigger challenges.
And instructionally, it’s an excellent book. The 30 designs are based on combinations of just a few knots, which are simple to learn from the clear step-by-step photos.
This is a simpler project from the book – a basic macrame square knot creates a delicate cord to showcase a few beads.
At the more intricate end of the scale, the knots are the main event. Isn’t this pendant lovely?
You can use a variety of cords for this kind of macrame – nylon cord, elastic, silk, or even pearl cotton embroidery thread. Annika gives her assessment of the pros and cons of each.
(Just to give you a sense of scale, this little fish charm hangs from a 10mm ring.)
I did a little playing around with the basic knots. The book has a great method for fixing up an ordinary clipboard with a no-sew padded cover, which makes a perfect macrame surface. And the knots really are easy to do. The trick is placing them evenly. And keeping the cords from getting tangled.
…But let’s look at something way more professional:
Isn’t this one pretty? I love how the strung seed beads are interwoven with the knotting. There are also several gorgeous watch bands in the book – and what a great way to use this technique!
Every project has thorough step-by-step photos with accompanying (equally clear) text.
A great learning book for a very meditative craft. I’m excited to bust out my seed beads and play some more! Check out Annika’s website for some more photos of her work, and her micro macrame blog.
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