As a craft form, macrame can be traced back to Babylonian and Assyrian times.
The method of braiding and plaiting with fringed ends may have been around for centuries but it was during the Victorian era that it really got going in the UK, according to Heritage Crafts. The site says 19th century sailors made sea-faring essentials like hammocks and belts using macramé knotting techniques.
But when you think of macramé, you tend to think of boho retro pieces from the 70s rather than Pirates of the Caribbean. Cool wall hangings, groovy hanging pots, coasters with a twist and, inextricably, festival fashion. In fact, the trend for all things 70s has brought macramé back to the spotlight and brought it to the attention of a new audience.
While you could just buy macramé products, crafty types may relish the idea of DIYing it themselves. After all, it’s double the compliments on something you made with your own two hands.
Luckily there are plenty of macramé kits to help you get started. These all-in-one bundles, aimed at beginners, will take you through the process and various knots and weaves involved to get you macraméing in no time.
If you fancy trying a new hobby, we’ve grouped together the best options to help you get started. Whether it’s a screen-free treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for a friend, here’s the best macramé kits for beginners
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Piglet & Chestnut DIY macramé rainbow
If you’re looking for a handcrafted way to decorate a kid’s bedroom, look no further than this sweet macramé rainbow. The crafty kit will see you making six arches in various colours to piece together and form your very own rainbow, complete with fringed edges and topped with a wooden bead. Instructions are simple to follow and should keep you occupied for a few evening hours over the course of a week.
Buy now £24.95, Etsy
DMC Wind Down Table Mat Macramé Craft Kit
Start small with the basics and learn how to make this simple round 40cm placemat to add style and texture to your tabletops. This set includes a 250g ball of Nova Vita yarn, 100g of Nova Vita XL yarn and a sewing needle, as well as instructions to help you along the way.
Buy now £28.00, John Lewis
Lanaa Studio macramé downloadable guides
Dress your walls in the trend of the moment by crafting yourself a macramé art piece to warm up your space. This purchase is for instructions only, so you’ll need to have some of the tools and yarn in place before you try your hand at it.
Buy now £7.18, Etsy
Wool Couture How To Macrame A Deckchair Diy Kit
When you’re ready to move onto a bigger project, Wool Couture has the ideal kit for revamping old garden furniture. This set will take you through the steps of crafting a DIY macramé deck chair seat in a range of colours from cream, red, purple, green or grey. You’ll do larks head knots and square knots, which are some of the simplest versions. A great project you can show off to your mates.
Buy now £55.99, NOTHS
DMC Mindful Making Carefully Contained Macramé Craft Kit
Whether you want to elevate old glass bottles and jars or you’re looking for a way to give thoughtful but inexpensive gifts, macraméing is the craft that keeps giving. DMC’s set will show you how to wrap old wine bottles and pasta sauce jars in the weave, making them much appealing for displaying flowers as well as gifting to friends.
Buy now £28.00, John Lewis
