How to make macrame curtains with your own hands

Today, hand-made is increasingly used to decorate window openings. And this is quite understandable, because in this way there is an opportunity to make the interior truly exclusive, unique in its kind. How to use macrame curtains correctly in design? What are the advantages of these models?

What is macrame

Macrame is a well-known and popular all over the world way of needlework, the so-called knot weaving. Its essence lies in the fact that knots of different types and sizes are tied on a cord or thick yarn, in a certain sequence, and as a result, the pattern you need is obtained.

Modern techniques have come down to us from Ancient China, and mastering macrame is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. As a result, the curtains are so spectacular that it is literally impossible to take your eyes off them. The main advantage is that you always have room for imagination, and no one forbids you to embody your own ideas.

The main requirement for the material: the rope should be flat and dense, and the thickness, in the end, does not matter.

The rope can be nylon, cotton, hemp or other raw materials.

Where to begin

If you are interested in this type of needlework, and you are eager to create "something like that", first familiarize yourself with the basic types of macrame knots. There are few of them, and mastering them will not take you much time. Now you need to decide on the size of the future curtain and its pattern (diagram).

You can start choosing the material. It is better for beginners to abandon smooth, slippery ropes, since even skilled craftsmen work with such material with difficulty: the knot is difficult to fix and requires constant efforts and control over the compliance with the chosen pattern. But paper twine and regular clothesline are ideal for a beginner.

The main requirement for the material: it must be strong and elastic enough to securely fix the knot and prevent it from loosening or untiing.

If you decide to start working with a synthetic cord, then remember that the main drawback of this material is blooming at the cut, so do not forget to melt the edge.

It is usually difficult for novice craftsmen to immediately determine the amount of material required, so it is recommended to purchase a rope with a small margin. Also, make sure you have the necessary equipment and tools, and do not forget about decorative items such as buttons, small appliqués, lace or ruffles.

Necessary accessories:

• Centimeter, ruler for measuring;
• Scissors;
• Safety pins;
• Ordinary needles for sewing on decor;
• Crochet hook (often required if you need to untie the wrong knot);
• Glue for fixing special knots;
• Dense pad for attaching threads (someone prefers to use a special wooden frame for this purpose).

For the most comfortable work, any filler is fixed on a wooden base and sheathed with durable material. If the "upholstery" is in a check, it will greatly simplify the workflow. If you choose a round pattern, then you can use a hoop as a base.

This is the most necessary, but the set of accessories may be slightly supplemented depending on the model and material you choose.

Advantages and disadvantages of macrame curtains

Advantages

In fairness, it should be noted that macrame curtains compare favorably with other hand-made options, such as knitted or crocheted curtains. And there are a number of explanations for this.

Firstly, it is the macrame curtains created by your own hands that are perfectly combined with tulle or organza, creating a full-fledged design of the window opening.

Secondly, such curtains can be used for both spacious rooms and small rooms. The main thing is to choose the right curtain size and pattern.

Thirdly, wicker curtains are more durable and wear-resistant. They are easy to attach and also easy to remove for cleaning or washing.

And a few more indisputable advantages:

• creating macrame curtains with your own hands, you make the interior unique and inimitable;
• you can always create a model of the size you need, with the pattern you like, and with a certain degree of density;
• openwork diffuses light well, which is very important for windows facing the south or east side;
• windows facing the north, decorated with macrame curtains, let in more light into the room and make it visually more spacious;
• unlike yarn curtains, macrame curtains do not get confused, which makes it easier to use.

Finally, knitting is a great way to relieve stress and have fun. So, not only the end result is important, but also the process itself.

disadvantages

There are also obvious "disadvantages" of models using the macrame technique:

1. As a rule, macrame curtains are heavy, which means that the fastening must be strong and reliable;
2. Any products made of thread or yarn attract dust, which means that regular cleaning is needed;
3. Such models are always "in demand" among children and animals, there is a risk of damage to the interior item;
4. It can take a long time to create a macrame masterpiece, but rest assured, the result will certainly delight you.

Care advice

By following simple maintenance tips, you can significantly increase the operating time of macrame curtains:

• Wash only with liquid detergents, hand wash;
• Do not under any circumstances unscrew the canvas;
• Do not tie the curtains in a knot;
• If curtains are made of synthetic fibers, dry only on a flat surface;
• For smoothing, use a steamer or iron, while heat treatment should be carried out only through a cotton cloth;
• If there are no greasy spots, and you just need to get rid of the dust, use a vacuum cleaner;
• If your macrame curtains have ornate patterns, have the canvas dry cleaned.

Varieties of knitted curtains

Before you start working on a product, answer yourself the question: for what purpose is the thing intended. Perhaps the curtain will receive exclusively the role of decor, and it should not meet any special requirements. Ultimately, the choice of material and model will depend on the answer to this question.

If you need a light translucent curtain covering the window with one sheet, it is better to opt for a crocheted or knitted curtain. Any technique can be used. Curtains of the "arch" type look very impressive. Such models fill the room with light and visually make it more spacious.

In the case when there is a need for a more functional version, that is, in order to provide protection from sunlight and prying eyes, choose denser options. At the same time, it is important to avoid curtains that are too thick, as they look very heavy and cumbersome.

Ideal for many rooms - two curtains that can be moved to the sides, freeing the window. This option can be crocheted, or made using the macrame technique.

Remember that knitted curtains are inappropriate for loft, hi-tech or Empire style. Roman, Austrian, Italian and English curtains also "will not stand" such a neighborhood. And the laconic style will not be "friends" with lace and ruffles.

Macrame curtains are an interesting and unique option. By choosing the right materials and drawing, you can create a practical thing. The main thing is that the design of the window opening is in harmony with the interior design as a whole.

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