Archaeologists claim that the history of macrame is as old as the history of mankind itself. Near the ancient fires, where cavemen used to warm themselves and eat mammoths, they find the remains of weaving, reminiscent of macrame. Interestingly, it is impossible to say exactly where this art originated, because primitive crafts dating back thousands and thousands of years are found in different countries, on different continents.

Even the very origin of the word "macrame" is completely unclear. Scientists have many assumptions about this: someone says that the word is of Turkic origin and means “shawl, shawl, lace”, and someone adheres to the version that this is a French word and it actually means “weaving”.

Be that as it may, macrame is now known in all countries. And in each country, macrame technique has its own characteristics. There are special types of macrame in Europe, China, Japan, Arab countries, and almost every tribe of Indians in both Americas.

Where to begin?

Sometimes you feel so sorry for yourself - there are ancient arts in the world that you have no idea about at all! And I want to try it right now. But what if you have never tried to weave macrame? First you need to prepare the basic minimum of tools.

To master the basics of weaving technique, you will need:

• oblong pillow (preferably heavy) - suitable, for example, an old sofa cushion, or homemade, stuffed with rags;
• thick and durable safety pins; you can also use darning needles with beads attached to the eye;
• good scissors;
• centimeter tape and a long ruler;
• knitting hooks;
• bobbins or bobbins to make it more convenient to work with very long threads.

What to weave?

Another important question - what will we weave from? Various types of macrame are weaving from ordinary clothesline, cotton threads, thick wool, strips of leather, ribbons, soft vegetable fibers, wire in a colored braid, and even from strips of fabric twisted into cords.

As practice shows, it is most convenient for beginners to work with soft cotton ropes - not too thin, not too thick. If you make a mistake, it will be easier for you to unweave the weave, and working with such material is easier and more enjoyable. In order not to tire your eyes, choose light ropes - the knots on them are more visible and more expressive. By the way, let's start learning the main types of macrame knots.

Node types

Macrame is a weaving of different types of knots, of which there are now about a hundred. To learn all kinds of macrame knots, it will probably take too much time. But to even try, you need to master only a few simple knots - say, about a dozen.

The most important knot, without which almost no weaving can do, is called a fastener. As the name implies, this knot is attached to the base: another thread, a wooden stick, a metal bar, a ring, or even a finished product. This knot has several varieties, but for now we will study only two: lock-out and lock-in.

Fastening with a lock outside it is performed as follows: we bend the thread in half, place the middle on the base, we wind the loop-fold for the base, we drag the ends through it and tighten it.

Lock fastening inside it is performed in almost the same way, only we place the loop-fold in front of the base.

Now let's study simple knot. However, you already know what it is. We only specify that a simple node can be right and left. The right knot has a loop on the right, and the left knot has a loop on the left.

figure eight knot a little more difficult. Form a loop from the rope, bring the end of the rope back above the loop, go around and insert it into the loop from top to bottom.

Loop knot runs on two threads. He is right and left. He is also very simple.

Now let's try to weave more complex knots. To begin with, let's study flat knot. To do this, we need four ends of the rope at once. To make the weaving technique clearer, we used threads of different colors. First we tie a right-hand knot, and then a left-hand one. As a result, we get a very beautiful knot, called square, or hunting.

By the way, if you tie flat knots on only one side (left-handed or right-handed), you get a very cute twisted lace.

Now let's explore rep knot. The macrame weaving technique distinguishes between a couple of basic rep knots: horizontal and vertical.

The four ends of the rope are involved in creating a horizontal rep knot. We took the left one as a basis, unfolded it, and stabbed it with a pin. We take the second thread (it is called working), wrap the base with two loops. It is not necessary to tighten very tightly, as well as leave the loops weak. You will have to practice so that the weaving is uniform and beautiful.

Now we will do the same with the next thread, and finally, with one more, right. As a result, we get a horizontal row of knots, which is called a brida. Now you can continue weaving - let's expand the base, and start braiding it already from right to left.

The vertical rep knot already uses five ropes. Four of them, fixed vertically, will be the base, while one free thread will be the working one. Each rope of the base, from left to right, and then from right to left, we braid in turn in pairs of loops.

To learn the techniques of weaving knots, you need several threads with a length 1m and one thread for the warp length 30 cm

Attach the base to the pillow horizontally with two pins. Take two strands of length 1m. We fold each of them in half and skip the loop for the base. We lower both ends of the thread down to the base and thread it into the loop (Fig. 1).

Having fixed 2 threads on the basis, we get 4 ends (Fig. 2).

First flat knot. We distribute the 4 ends as follows: the two middle threads 2 and 3 are the warp threads, the two extreme 1 and 4 are the right and left working threads.

We take the right working thread with our right hand, we wind it on the warp and under the left working thread.

We take the left working thread with our left hand, we bring it under the warp and from below into the loop formed between the warp and the right working thread (Fig. 3, a).

twisted left hand chain. Based on the first flat knot, you can weave a twisted chain. We tie the first flat knot and repeat this work 3 more times. Got 4 flat knots. If we now carefully look at the work, we will see that the group of knots has slightly turned "sideways" to the left. Now rotate the work 180° to the left. Let's make the first 4 flat knots and again turn the work 180 ° to the left. So, turning the work every 4 knots, we get a left-handed twisted chain.

Make sure that no warp threads are visible when weaving the chain (Fig. 3, b).

Second flat knot. We fasten on the basis of 2 threads (we get 4 ends). We already know how to distribute these threads: 2 medium - warp threads, 2 - extreme - working threads.

We take the right thread with our right hand, we wind it under the warp and on the left working thread (Fig. 4, a). Then we take the left working thread with our left hand, lay it on the warp and drag it into the loop formed between the warp and the right working thread.

The twisted chain is right-handed. Based on the second flat knot, you can also weave a twisted chain, but it will twist to the right. Let's make 4 second flat knots and turn the work to the right by 180 °. Let's repeat this operation 3-4 times and get a right-sided twisted chain (Fig. 4, b).

In order to be able to draw a diagram of the product, it is necessary to designate each node graphically.

Since the flat knot itself is not used anywhere, we will not designate it separately, but we will give the designation to twisted chains:

L ∼ - left-handed twisted chain based on the first flat knot;

P ∼ - right-handed twisted chain based on the second flat knot.

A fraction is placed next to it, the numerator of which means the number of nodes within the turn, and the denominator is the number of turns of the twisted chain. For example, P ∼ 4/3 means that you need to weave a right-handed twisted chain for three turns, four knots in each turn, i.e. tie four second flat knots, turn work, tie four more second flat knots, turn work a second time and tie four second flat knots one last time and turn work.

square knot. The combination of the first and second flat knots gives us a new knot - a square one.

We fasten on the basis of 2 threads. We tie the first flat knot, then we tie the second flat knot on the same basis and with the same working threads (Fig. 5). We get a double flat knot, which we will refer to as a square knot. A sign of the completeness of the knot is a lock on the right.

On fig. 6, a shows a square knot with a lock on the left; here a second flat knot is tied, and then the first.

The symbol for a square knot is ∠.

The number next to the square knot designation indicates how many square knots need to be woven in this row. For example, ∠ 10 means that you need to weave 10 square knots in one row; if the sign is preceded by the letter c, for example c ∠ 10, then you need to weave a chain of 10 square knots. The number of square knots in the chain can be counted by locks (Fig. 6, b).

General square knot. If in an ordinary square knot we see two warp threads and two working threads, then in a common square knot these proportions are violated. Here the number of working threads and the number of warp threads are distributed depending on the nature of the pattern.

Let's make a sample. We fix three threads on the base and get 6 ends. Let's distribute them as follows: threads 1, 2, 5, 6 - workers, 3, 4 - warp threads (Fig. 7, a). We tie a common square knot based on two threads with four working threads.

We fix on the basis of 4 threads (we get 8 ends). Let's distribute the threads as follows: threads 1, 8 - workers, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 - warp threads. We tie a square knot based on six threads with two working threads (Fig. 7.6).

"Chess". These are square knots connected in a checkerboard pattern. For the sample, we fix on the basis of 8 threads (we get 16 ends).

If you want to quickly draw a work you like, some new solution, you sketch it all graphically - drawing corners and circles is easier and faster than drawing complex drawings of knots (Fig. 8, b).

"Berry". On the basis of a square knot, you can get a three-dimensional knot called a berry.

We fasten two threads to the base (Fig. 9). We get four ends. Weave three square knots. We take the warp threads, lift them up and drag them through the base of the first square knot inside out. We lower it down, lay the warp threads in place. We tighten the base so that the third knot lies on the first. We fix the berry with a square knot.

Berries can be woven in a checkerboard pattern. Let's make a sample to consolidate the material covered.

We fasten on the basis of 8 threads. Weave a sample according to the scheme (Fig. 10). We read the diagram: against the background of square knots, weave a berry knot in a checkerboard pattern.

Pico in a chain of square knots. Between the square knots in the chain, you can make a picot, it will add airiness to the product. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 2 threads (Fig. 11).

1. Tie 1 square knot. We take a cardboard 2 cm wide, apply it to the threads under a square knot and weave another 1 square knot. Between the knots, the threads remain untied.
2. Having connected the chain, holding the base, we pull the knots up. Working threads form two beautiful loops. This is pico.

You choose the size of the pico at will, depending on the thickness of the thread and the length of the chain.

Knot "chameleon". This technique consists in changing the threads when the warp threads become working, and the working threads become the warp.

For the sample, take 2 threads of different colors. The method of attaching threads is shown in Fig. 12.

We distribute the threads as follows: the threads of color A are working, and the threads of color B are the base.

Tie 1 square knot. Now let's swap the warp and working threads (Fig. 13). Tie 1 square knot in color B.

You can weave 10 square knots of color A, and then swap the threads, and the second half of the chain will be color B.

This technique is also used if the working threads are used up and their length may not be enough until the end of the work.

In general, it is useful to remember that the working thread shortens four times faster than the warp.

Square knots diagonally. In order to make a rhombus or an inclined line from square knots, you need to learn how to weave them diagonally.

For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 6 threads (we get 12 ends). Next, we perform the pattern in the following sequence (Fig. 14):

1. On the first 4 threads we tie a square knot A.
2. On the last 4 threads we tie a square knot B.
3. We take the right extreme thread from knot L and the left extreme thread from knot B and tie a square knot on the middle 4 threads, taking them as a basis.
4. We repeat the work of paragraphs. 1 and 2.
5. The last 2 threads on the right and left do not work. We tie a row of 2 square knots on the central 8 threads.
6. We tie a square knot on the central 4 threads. The rest of the threads are free. Half rhombus closed.
7. In order to start a new diamond, you need to place square nodes diagonally from the central node. We take 2 left threads of the central knot and 2 new threads on the left, we tie a square knot under the central knot on the left. We take two right threads of the central knot and 2 new threads on the right, tie a square knot under the central knot on the right.
8. To get an inclined line of square knots, you need to take 2 threads from the knot above and 2 new threads. This technique is clearly visible in the figure. In the center of the rhombus is a common square knot. Continue to work on the drawing.

Thus, you can weave a belt, a handle for a bag, trim for a dress, a bookmark for a book, etc.

The square knot is complex. After you have learned how to weave a simple and common square knot, a complex knot will seem very easy to you.

For the sample, we fasten 3 threads (we get 6 ends). We tie a square knot (Fig. 15) on the central 4 threads (2, 3, 4, 5). Taking the central 4 threads as a basis, we tie a square knot with threads 1 and 6. Below we tie a knot on the central 4 threads.

Node "web". We fasten on the basis of 6 threads (we get 12 ends).

Knot "gourmet". This knot is usually woven from a silk thread of soft tones and semitones. When weaving, the thread must be tightly tightened. Gourmand creates a wonderful background for the pattern, if weave it in a checkerboard pattern.

This knot is woven very simply. We fasten on the basis of 4 threads (we get 8 ends). In the first row, we work with two groups of threads, 4 in each. We tie flat knots in the following sequence: 1st, 2nd, 1st. And so we tie one and a half square knots.

Weave the pattern according to the scheme (Fig. 17).

Knot "fluff". In order to weave a fluffy scarf, trim for a dress or a pillowcase on a sofa cushion in the macrame way, you need to master the technique of weaving this knot.

For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 2 threads (Fig. 18).

1. Tie a second flat knot.
2. We stretch the base onto a pencil and tie a square knot, tightening it tighter.
3. We repeat the work from paragraph 1.

Thus, a terry cloth is obtained.

Spider pattern. We fasten on the basis of 4 threads (we get 8 ends).

Knot "hermit"(Hercules knot). The execution of this knot is similar to the execution of a square knot, with the difference that it does not have warp threads. Tie it on two working threads.

You can weave a chain on two threads with a "hermit *" knot (Fig. 20). If you like it, you can weave such a chain on 4 threads. For the sample, we fasten 1 thread on the basis (we get 2 ends).

If we repeat the work in a mirror image, then the knot lock will be on the left.

Japanese knot. The Japanese knot can be included in the composition of the panel, in the drawing of a bag, belt, napkin. It can also be used as an independent pattern in a pendant, bracelet, sandals, etc.

Rep knot. This is the second most important node in macrame. It is interesting in that, depending on the direction of the warp thread on which it is tied, the knot will be called horizontal, diagonal and vertical.

horizontal node. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 3 threads (we get 6 ends). Thread 1 (Fig. 23) on the left is the base. The remaining five threads are working.

Conventional designation of the horizontal node -

diagonal knot. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 3 threads (we get 6 ends).

As you can see in the figure, when knitting an inclined row, some part of the thread remains untied. We will call this part of the thread a bridle. Brides in an oblique row do not need to be pulled tight so that they do not warp the design of the product.

Rhombus from diagonal knots. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 7 threads (we get 14 ends).

1. We divide the number of threads into two parts (7 threads in each part).
2. We take threads 7 and 8 as the basis for the two sides of the rhombus (Fig. 26).

   

3. Weave the left side first. Hold the thread 7 at the desired slope from the center. We start from the middle. We tie the first knot with thread 6, then we tie knots with threads 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, respectively.
4. Now let's get to work on the right side. We take thread 8 as a basis. We tie the first knot (at the top of the rhombus) with thread 9, then we tie the knots, respectively, with threads 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. This is how the rhombus was opened.
5. Before closing the rhombus, we stab the lines of rotation of the base with a pin (Fig. 27). Now we have to keep the base tilted towards the center. We start working from the corner. Brides are not stretched.

   

6. All threads of the rhombus have been worked out. The warp threads met. It is necessary to close the lower edge of the rhombus. Now one of the warps becomes the working thread, and the second becomes the warp. We tie a diagonal knot on the basis.
7. To fix the base of the rhombus, you can: a - swap the warps, i.e. make thread 7 the basis for the right side, and thread 8 for the left (Fig. 28); b - on thread 7, knit one diagonal knot with thread 8, then the upper corner of the rhombus will be sharp.

   

   We will talk about complex patterns inside a rhombus below. Now let's look at the simplest of them. Net. Inside the rhombus, you can make a grid, that is, darn the field of the rhombus with working threads. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 6 threads.

   We tie the working threads of the left side of the rhombus to the right side. Here the threads need to be pulled, then the mesh will turn out beautiful.

   "Window". For the sample, we fasten 6 threads (we get 12 ends).

   

   "Souvenir". Here, the entire diamond shape is filled with rows of diagonal knots.

   For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 6 threads (we get 12 ends).

   
   

   The "souvenir" pattern can be used when weaving a belt.

   Flower pattern. In order to weave a flower, first of all, you need to determine its pattern and size. Make a drawing rapport. Attach it to your work pad. If you are weaving a floral ornament, then you need to shift the pattern for each flower so that it is under work all the time.

   For the sample, we fasten 8 threads (we get 16 ends).

   

   Lattice pattern. The principle of weaving is the same as the "flower" pattern, with the difference that in the lattice all the lines of the base are absolutely straight (Fig. 33).

   

   This pattern is very popular in macrame. It is used when weaving bags, borders for napkins, lace.

   Leaves pattern. This pattern creates a beautiful lace fabric. It is better to weave from thin threads. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 10 threads (we get 20 ends).

   
   

   Thread 5 is the basis for the upper edge of the leaflet, thread 6 is for the bottom. Weave the second leaf on the third group of threads. In this pattern, you need to make sure that the leaves of each row are parallel to each other.

   Chain. For the sample, we fasten 1 thread on the basis (we get 2 ends).

   We take thread 2 as a basis (Fig. 35) and knit a diagonal knot with thread 1, then we take thread 1 as a basis and knit a diagonal knot with thread 2. So, each time changing the purpose of the thread, we weave a chain of the desired length. At the same time, we make sure that the distance between the nodes is the same ( 1-2 mm).

   Boucle. If you want the woven fabric to be dense, use a boucle pattern.

   For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 4 threads (we get 8 ends). We distribute the threads in pairs: 1, 3, 5, 7 (Fig. 36) - working threads, and 2, 4, 6, 8 - warp threads.

   

   1. We tie 1 diagonal knot on each base with a working thread (on base 2 - with working thread 1, on base 4 - with working thread 3, on base 6 - with working thread 5 and on base 8 - with working thread 7). Knitted the first row of boucle.
   2. In the second row, we change the purpose of the threads: the working threads become the warp, and the warp threads become the workers. Here we also tie a diagonal knot on the basis (on the basis of 1 - with a working thread 4, on the basis of 3 - with a working thread 6, on the basis of 5 - with a working thread 8).

   This technique makes it possible to weave any shape: triangle, square, rectangle.

   vertical node. For the sample, we take 3 threads (Fig. 37). On one of them we attach the other two. We lay the warp thread horizontally, and fasten the working threads at the right end (the left end of the warp is free for work), weave one row of horizontal knots on it. Now we have the end of the base on the right.

   

   1. We change the purpose of the threads: the warp, the end of which we now have on the right, is the working thread, and the 4 ends of the two reinforced threads that were working in the first row are 4 warp threads.
   2. We tie on the right, on the first vertical base (thread 4) 1 knot.
   3. The next warp is thread 3, and the working thread is the same. Tie a second vertical knot. We also work with warp threads 2 and 1.

   On fig. 38 shows the work from left to right.

   

   Color pattern. A technique that makes it possible to weave a beautiful pattern, plot drawing or facsimile is called a color pattern. This technique consists in a combination of horizontal and vertical knots when weaving, and there are two or more tones of threads in the work. A two-tone pattern looks good in weaving. You can use cross stitch patterns here.

   For the sample, we take three threads of color A (6 ends) and 1 thread of color B (Fig. 39).

   

   1. We take the thread of color B as a base, fasten 3 threads of color A on it and knit one row of horizontal knots.
   2. We knit the first two threads on the left with a horizontal knot.
   3. We change the purpose of the threads: we take thread 3 as a basis. On it we knit a vertical knot with a thread of color B.
   4. We knit the remaining 3 threads with a horizontal knot on a colored basis.

   Before you start weaving a color pattern, select the tones of the threads and distribute them over the pattern. Weave the background with a horizontal knot, and the pattern with a vertical one.

   The combination of the main nodes in the pattern. Having mastered the techniques of weaving the basic knots of macrame, we can begin to study complex combinations that give an interesting structure.

   Button pattern. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 4 threads (we get 8 ends, Fig. 40).

   

   1. We tie 2 square knots side by side.
   2. We divide the number of threads into 2 parts and distribute them as follows: the first 4 threads are working, the second 4 threads are the warp. Now we will weave 4 rows of diagonal knots with working threads 1, 2, 3, 4 on warps 5, 6, 7, 8. We start working from above.
   3. We take thread 5 and knit 1 diagonal row on it with threads 1, 2, 3, 4. So, we sequentially take threads 6, 7 and 8 and knit 3 more rows on them.
   4. Now the threads of the first group are on our right, and the threads of the second group are on the left. We tie a square knot on the left - on threads 5, 6, 7, 8 and the second square knot on the right - on threads i, 2, 3, 4, and tighten the knots tighter. So we get a convex button.

   Onion pattern. Outwardly, this pattern resembles a "button" pattern, but the execution technique here is somewhat different. For the sample, we fasten four threads on the base (we get eight ends). We divide the number of threads in half: in the first group we have threads 1, 2, 3, 4; in the second - threads 5, 6, 7, 8 (Fig. 41, a).

   

   

   Start pattern. This is a beautiful drawing with an interesting compositional solution. Here, as in the previous patterns, two methods of weaving are used: square and diagonal knots.

   For the sample, we take 5 threads (we get 10 ends). We divide the number of threads into two parts: the first part - threads 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; the second part - threads 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 (Fig. 42).

   

   1. We take thread 5 as a basis and tie a diagonal knot on it with thread 6. From this moment, thread 5 goes into the second part of the work, and thread 6 into the first part.
   2. We prick threads 5 and 6 in a circle.
   3. We work on the left. Departing from the upper knot, we tie diagonal knots on threads 6 with threads 4, 3, 2, 1.
   4. We work on the right. Departing from the upper knot, we tie horizontal knots on threads 5 with threads 7, 8, 9, 10.
   5. Stepping back a little to the center of the circle, we tie a square knot on the left on threads 1, 2, 3, 4, on the right - on threads 7, 8, 9, 10.
   6. We change the value of the threads: threads 1, 2, 3, 4 are working; threads 7, 8, 9, 10 - warp.
   7. We knit 4 rows of diagonal knots on threads 7, 8, 9, 10 with threads 4, 3, 2, 1.
   8. We tie a square knot on threads 1, 2, 3, 4 on the right. We tie a square knot on threads 7, 8, 9, 10 on the left.
   9. We fasten all the threads to the base at the bottom of the circle.
   10. Warp threads 5 and in intersected. We close the circle with a diagonal knot.

   The "start" pattern can be used independently (pendant, sandals), and can also be included in the composition of the panel.

   "Chess" in a rhombus. We know that "checkerboard" is square knots in a checkerboard pattern. We also know what a rhombus of diagonal knots is. And now let's talk about how to weave a "checkerboard" of square knots in a rhombus.

   For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 5 threads (we get 10 ends). We divide the number of threads in half.

   

   This pattern is very popular. It is often used when weaving panels, bags, lampshades, lace, etc.

   Common square knot in a rhombus. For the sample, we fasten on the basis of 7 threads (we get 14 ends). We divide the total number of threads in half (Fig. 44).

   

   1. We take threads 7 and 8 as a basis, open the rhombus.
   2. Using threads 1 and 14 as workers, we tie a common square knot on the basis of 10 threads.
   3. Having fixed the turning point of the base of the sides of the rhombus with a pin, we close it on threads 7 and 8.

   Pattern "Fantasy". We will get this pattern from a combination of two patterns: a "spider web" (see Fig. 16) and a grid (see Fig. 29).

   For the sample (Fig. 45), we fasten 11 threads (we get 22 ends).

   

   1. We divide the number of threads in half. Open the rhombus with medium threads.
   2. We work with groups of threads of 2 each. We tie 5 vertical knots on each side of the rhombus.
   3. In the center of the rhombus weave a "gossamer" pattern (see Fig. 16).
   4. On both sides of the chain of square knots in the center of the rhombus, we make a grid, interlacing the working threads with each other.
   5. After we have made the grid, we can close the rhombus.
   6. Let's repeat the work of item 2 and close the rhombus again.

Having prepared all the materials necessary for work, a convenient surface for work, the main knots become the next stage in mastering the technique of weaving macrame. Having at least a few of them in the baggage of knowledge and skills, you can start working on the first products.

Thread attachment

In total, there are two types of threads: working and main. Working threads are attached to the warp thread in two different ways:

1. The working thread is folded in half and placed on top of the main thread, after which it is bent over it. The ends of the thread are held in a loop and tightened.
2. The working thread bent in half is placed under the main thread, the loop is bent, and the ends are also pulled into it.

Macrame knots for beginners

The first macrame knots, the schemes of which we are studying, are flat. And above all a single flat knot.

To weave it, we fasten two threads folded in half using one of the methods described above. In this case, the extreme threads will become working with us, and the middle threads will become nodular. They are consumed in the process several times less than workers, so they must be initially shorter.

The flat knot can be left and right.

The left flat knot is woven like this: we take the left working thread with our left hand and bend it to the right over the knotted ones. Next, we take the right working thread, put it on top of the left one, then we wind it under the knots and stretch it into the loop formed on the left. We tighten.

Repeating the weaving of the knot, we note that they begin to twist. You should not straighten them, on the contrary, turning the work 180 ?, we will get a twisted chain.

The right flat knot is woven in the same way as the left one, but exactly the opposite. We start weaving from right to left, and most of the manipulations will be done with the left. By repeating the nodes in the same way, we get a chain similar to the left-hand one, but the turns of which are directed from right to left.

double flat knot

A double flat macrame knot is obtained by alternating the weaving of the right and left flat knot.

We fasten paired threads on the basis, weave the left knot, and immediately after it - the right one. This is the first double knot. Please note that it should have a visible "crossbar", and if the first was the right node, then it will be on the right, and if the left, then, respectively, on the left. A new knot should begin with the thread that comes out from under this crossbar. Given this, we weave a few more such knots, tightly laying the knots. We get a straight line.

By the way, this knot is also called the "square macrame knot". And it can be woven from absolutely any number of threads. The text of the schemes usually indicates their distribution. However, the number of working threads on both sides should be equal. If thin threads are used, then in order to obtain a more beautiful embossed cord, it is better to increase the number of working cords.

Rep knot

The next knot is one of the most popular in macrame. It is called rep or ribbed. From the direction in which the main threads go, the knots will be vertical, horizontal or diagonal. A number of rep knots is called a brida, regardless of how they are located.

The knot weaving technique can be seen in the picture:

Let's try to tie a horizontal brid. To do this, on the basis we fix three pairs of threads - six ends. During our work, we will have only one extreme thread, all the rest will be workers, which we will tie one by one on the basis. We take the first thread (No. 2) and wrap it around the main thread twice, weaving the macrame rep knot according to the figure above. We also weave with the remaining threads. When the row is completed, we get a horizontal brid.

If the nodes are directed diagonally, then the brid will eventually be diagonal. It is used for weaving patterns with rhombuses.

In this section, we will look at several complex knots known as "Chinese" knots. You may have seen these knots in feng shui shops. Each Chinese knot has its own legend, and the name of the knot reflects its shape and meaning. Chinese knots are often used to express good wishes (happiness, prosperity, love, good luck).

Chinese knots are distinguished by the fact that they are tied from one thread. The color of the cord may vary, but most often it is red, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Almost all major Chinese knots are symmetrical, with many looking identical on both sides. Tying a knot consists of three stages: laying out the thread, tightening the knot (including pulling out the necessary "ears", etc.) and finishing touches, such as adding beads or other decorative elements to the knot.

Node "Money Tree"

The “Money Tree” node attracts money from any source, including when you start to find it, receive it as a gift, win. Improves business health.

How to tie the money tree knot

1. We knit the base knot.

3. We begin to knit the left knot. In the left ear we pass from the bottom up, we bring it down. The part that fits in this step, I highlighted

green.

4. Put another loop under the previous loop, bring the end up

5. We flash the resulting left node.

6. Draw the tail under the central node, where the tree trunk will be.

7. Flip the knot from left to right. At the top is the side that was from you before.

8. Repeat all steps 3 to 7 exactly.

clover leaf

This knot is tied at one end of the cord and consists of inner loops (the center of the knot) and outer loops representing leaves. The number of external loops can vary from 2 to 5-6. It is for this reason that the knot is also known as the Flower knot. Often used as part of more complex combined knots. The Chinese believe that the four-leaf clover brings great luck.

Knot "Swastika"

Other names are Virtue Knot or True Love Knot.
This knot is similar to an ancient Buddhist sign, symbolizing the sun, fire, the heart of the Buddha, absolute virtue and power over evil. Brings good luck and prosperity.

Chinese knot ("Cross" knot)

The Chinese knot is tied on two threads, often of different colors.

If you take two threads, pin them crosswise at the middle and weave knot after knot according to the same pattern, you will get a very beautiful dense lotus cord. Knots can be tied both clockwise and counterclockwise. If you alternate, you get a cord not with a round, but with a square section. You can weave a "lotus" cord from cords of different colors, this will only decorate it :).
By the way, other cords are woven according to the same principle: from 3 or 5 ends, as well as a “crown” from 8 ends (for this, 4 threads are laid crosswise and fastened in the middle).

Luck Knot

Unlike most knots, whose names are derived from the names of the decorative elements they represent, this widespread knot was unnamed until Lydia Chen gave it a name, similar to similar knots.
The weaving scheme is like that of a cord from a Chinese knot, only they work with separate ends, and here - with loops of doubled threads. In fact, the Luck knot consists of two Chinese knots.

1. Fasten the thread on the pillow with a cross, as shown in Figure 1. Leave the petals rather long - 15 centimeters each.
2. Take the bottom petal (two free ends of the thread) and bring it up to the right petal, secure with pins. Don't forget to leave a loop at the bottom.
3. Now take the right petal and turn it to the left (it will go over the bottom petal wound on it and over the top petal).
4. Do the same with the top petal (we work in a circle).
5. Finally, the left petal will pass over the top petal wound on it, and into the loop from the bottom petal.
6. Pull out all the petals at the same time - from the center to the sides. The first part of the node is ready.
7. Now repeat steps 2-6. A second node is formed on top of the first. The Knot of Luck is ready. Align the petals. If desired, extend small petals from the first knot. Note that the knot looks slightly different from different angles - that's how it should be.

The Knot of Luck can be woven not only from 4 "petals" - there may be more of them. You already understood the principle of making the knot - the required number of loops is made from the thread, then each of the loops is brought to the next one on the left, and so on.

Six Petal Flower

The round shape of this knot symbolizes well-being. Study the pattern well before tying the Six Petal Flower. In order not to get confused when you weave, work as much as possible according to the scheme: where the loop should be large, pin a large loop there, etc. I did not give instructions for this pattern, because in my opinion it is easier to weave directly on it, and the instructions here can only confuse. Weave slowly, refer to the drawings - you will succeed!

Knot "Button"

The button knot is widely used in jewelry. Necklaces in which the "Button" alternates with beads look very elegant. The loop on top of the button can be left or tightened.

Ceiling node

The French word "plafond" means "ceiling". This knot resembles the central fragments of ceilings in Chinese temples and palaces. Also known as the Well Knot.

Knot "Josephine" aka "Money"

The knot known to us as "Josephine" is called by the Chinese "Double Coin" - Double Coin Knot. In their opinion, this knot symbolizes two connected old coins, which in turn means well-being and longevity. The Double Coin node is often placed above the entrance to shops / offices, which should attract a lot of customers, and therefore bring good profit. :)

As you can see in the pictures, "Josephine" can be tied with both two and one thread. When weaving with two threads, both threads on the pillow are stabbed, a loop is formed from one, stabbed, and the formation of the knot is completed with the second thread. When weaving with one thread, one end is stabbed on a pillow, and the second is made alternately three turns according to the knot scheme.

In weaving, the knot is not very convenient - it looks like it will be twisted. Therefore, it is often woven not with individual threads, but with bundles of threads. However, this knot is used not only to decorate panels and other products. It is quite independent and can be useful, for example, for costume jewelry - chains from "Josephine" look very nice. You just need to take into account the tendency of this knot to deform, and take the cord harder.

"Double connection" node

This strong knot is exactly what its name says - one knot is tied into another. Both sides of the knot look the same. It looks especially beautiful if tied with multi-colored cords. Then on one side there will be a crossbar of one color, and on the other - of another.

snake knot

The snake is one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. She brings good luck and is the keeper of treasures.

From the Serpent Knot, a nice voluminous cord is obtained, which resembles snake skin in a pattern. Weaving at both ends.

1. Attach the two ends of different colors to the pillow. With the right end, make a loop around the left (see Fig. 1).
2. Make a loop with the left end around the right end.
3. Tighten the knot, but not too tightly.
4. Slightly increase the loop from the left end. Make a loop with the right, as shown in fig. 4, threading the end into the loop from the left.
5. Pull up the loop - now two loops have formed from the right end, passing through the knot.
6. Flip the weave - the cords are reversed. Take the right end, pass it under the left end, around it and into the second loop formed by the second end.
7. Tighten the knots, turn the weave over.
8. Continue to tie knots, turning the weave over and bringing the right end under the left, around it and into the lower loop.
9. If it is necessary to complete the weaving of the cord from the Snake Knot without "tails", soak each end separately in glue, twist, thread it through a needle with a wide eye and pull it inside the cord.

However, if you are confident :), proceed immediately to this node (the diagram and instructions are given below).

1. Take a thread 3m long. Pin it on the pillow in the middle, form a loop with each end (see Fig. 1, vertical loops), pin it.
2. Take the right end of the thread, make a long loop out of it and thread it through all the vertical loops that were formed in the previous step. The loop will pass through each of them according to the scheme "under the thread-above the thread" (see the same Fig. 1). Stab. Now make another long loop from the same thread, pass it through the vertical loops, like the first, pin it up.
3. Now we take the left end and lead it along the upper part of the knot, wrapping around all the vertically running threads, except for the rightmost eye loop. In this case, the thread will pass first over the loops, and then under them (see Fig. 2). We stab. Once again we start the same thread to the right (in this case, a loop is formed on the left) and repeat the same at the bottom of the knot.
4. Now you need to additionally walk the left end of the thread along the vertical of the knot (see Fig. 3).
   when the thread goes up, it goes under 1 strand, over 3 , again under 1 , and again over 3 strands,
   and when the thread goes down, it goes under 2 , over 1 , under 3 , over 1 and under 1 thread.
   Remember this sequence ("under one-over three-under one-over three- and down-under two-over one-under three-over-under"), it will make things easier.

1 - 3 - 1 - 3 - 2 - 1 - 3 - 1 - 1

1. Gently pull the knot over the outer loops and loose ends. It remains only to equalize the size of the petals, pulling up the corresponding sections of the thread (go from the middle of the knot in turn in different directions).
   1. Take a thread 2m long. Pin it on the pillow in the middle (in Figure 1, the middle is the junction of the white and yellow fills), now form three loops with each end (see Figure 1), pin.
   2. Take the right end of the thread, make a long loop out of it and thread it through all the vertical loops that were formed in the previous step. The loop will pass through each of them according to the scheme "under the thread-above the thread" (see Fig. 2). The right end remains on the right, we do not need it yet.
   3. Now we take the left end and wrap it around all the vertical loops, except for the rightmost eye loop. In this case, the thread will pass first over the loops, and then under them. (see fig.3)
   4. Now we need to additionally walk along the node's vertical. We will do this on both sides to make it symmetrical (see Fig. 4).
      The main principle to keep in mind is:
      when the thread goes up, it goes under 1 thread, and then over 3 threads;
      and when the thread goes down, it goes under 2 threads, over 1 and under 1 thread.
      Remember this sequence for yourself ("under one-over three-under two-over-under"), and it will not be difficult for you to weave this knot.

   1 - 3 - 2 - 1 - 1

   1. Now grab the outer loops & ponytails and carefully tighten the knot (just don't overdo it). It remains only to align the size of the petals by pulling up the corresponding sections of the thread (start aligning from the middle of the thread, which was stabbed at the very beginning).

   19.04.2016 09:26

   The art of weaving knots - macrame has long firmly won the hearts of craftswomen, and is now very often used in the manufacture of jewelry or home decor. Jewelry made using this technique is very original, and making such jewelry is extremely easy and simple. In the article we will look at the main stages of weaving, terms and learn how to weave a double flat knot.

   A bit of history.
   Macrame in Arabic means “braid, fringe”, “lace” is a knot weaving technique that has been known since antiquity in Greece, Egypt, ancient China and other eastern countries. This technique was mainly developed thanks to the sailing fleet. Sailors knew and weaved thousands of knots on ships, they braided structures with them, spliced ​​ropes. Such knots were unusually strong and original. Due to the fact that sailors also used the weaving technique to decorate bottles, knives, steering wheels, the art of weaving turned into a special kind of decorative art. Macrame began to weave lace, decorated clothes, home interiors.

   To weave a decoration using the macrame technique, it is enough to know some types of knots. Before you get acquainted with one of the main types of knots, without which it is simply impossible to do. and the main stages of weaving, let's clarify a few terms.

   Thread designations:
   Main thread- a thread on which knots are tied, and beads are often strung on this thread.
   working thread- the thread that braids the main thread, it is with this thread that knots are tied. The working thread is much longer than the main thread.

   What materials are needed to weave macrame jewelry?
   Jewelry can be woven from nylon, waxed cords, and even Super-Lon threads, the finished result of the work will depend on the choice of material.
   The most convenient and best material for weaving jewelry will be nylon cords, as they melt, which allows you to easily and firmly fix the ends of the cords in the jewelry.

   For the convenience of work, we recommend taking special spools for winding threads. You can wind the long ends of the working thread on them, and they will not interfere with work.
   

   The main stages of weaving in the technique of macrame.

   Consider the example of tying a double flat knot.

   1 Fixing the main thread on the desktop.
   For the convenience of weaving, the main thread can be fixed on the table with adhesive tape. Or secure it to the box with large paper clips.
   

   We leave the end of the cord about 12 cm long, so that later we can make a fastener on it.
   The other free end of the main thread, on which knots will be tied, is fixed on the desktop in the same way.

   2 Weaving knots. Double flat knot.
   Consider how to weave macrame jewelry using the most basic double knot as an example.
   The working thread will always be much longer than the main thread, since knots are tied with this thread. The length of the working thread will depend on the type of knots and how tight or vice versa freely we will weave the decoration.

   We fold the working thread in half and place it under the main thread. We begin to weave a double flat knot. This node consists of two nodes: right-handed and left-handed.
   Weave first right knot: put the right end of the working thread on the main thread. We place the left end of the working thread on top of the right end and thread it under the main thread, as in the photo.
   

   Tighten the ends of the cords. It turned out a right-hand knot.
   

   Next, let's do left knot: put the left end of the working thread on the main thread. And the right end of the working thread is placed on top of the left end and threaded under the main thread.
   

   Tighten the ends of the threads. It turned out a left-hand knot.
   

   We continue weaving, alternating knots. As a result, we get a double flat knot: right-handed + left-handed.
   We get a flat chain of nodes.
   

   If we always weave only one of the knots, for example, right-handed, we will get a spiral chain.
   

   With the help of a double flat knot, you can weave a whole bracelet, and such a knot is also used to make a clasp in bracelets.
   At the end of weaving, cut off the ends of the working thread, leaving about 2-3 mm, and melt them. We quickly fix the melted end of the thread on adjacent threads, trying to fix it from the wrong side of the decoration.

   How to make a clasp on a macrame bracelet.

   After weaving the bracelet, we still have the ends of the main threads on which we will make the clasp. We connect the main threads, as in the photo.
   

   Next, weave a double flat knot on these threads. Place the working thread under the warp threads. Let's continue weaving a flat knot, alternating right-handed and left-handed knots.
   

   Weave 7-8 knots. The weave should be tight so that the clasp does not unfasten when worn. At the end of weaving, you can check how the clasp will hold by pulling on the ends of the main threads of the bracelet.
   Cut off and melt the ends of the working thread at the fastener.
   

   At the ends of the main threads of the decoration, we will make knots and melt the ends of the threads so that they do not unravel.
   
   

   Try to do it yourself. You will need: