Macrame Wall Hangings: Selecting the Perfect Support 

October 31, 2023

Embarking on my macrame journey, I began with the basics: crafting Macrame Plant Hangers. As I honed my knotting skills, I moved on to more intricate wall hangings. But there was a pivotal moment of contemplation: What should I hang my macrame wall art on? 

In this blog post, I want to delve into that question with you, sharing not just practical tips, but also some creative ideas. Let’s explore the world of possibilities for displaying your cherished macrame wall art in a way that truly does justice to your craft.”

Dowels

Let’s begin with the most straightforward option for hanging your macrame wall art: the trusty dowel. Opt for any size ranging from 1cm to 2cm in width, or go thicker if that’s your preference. To work with this, all you’ll need is a junior hacksaw or a similar cutting tool to tailor it to your desired length.

Wooden Branches

Wooden Branches

Exploring the woods, I discovered an array of distinctive sticks brimming with character, ideal for showcasing macrame wall art. These wooden branches, with their natural charm, offer a rustic and authentic backdrop to your creations. Look for branches with intriguing knots, twists, and limbs jutting out – these unique features add an extra layer of character. 

Choosing these interesting branches not only gives your macrame wall art a distinct appeal but also connects your artwork with the raw beauty of nature. When selecting your branches, envision how your macrame pieces will elegantly drape and intertwine around these organic forms, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature in your living space.

After you’ve chosen your branches, start by cleaning them thoroughly. Remove any dirt, debris, or loose bark, ensuring a smooth surface for your knots to grip. If needed, gently sand the wood to prevent snagging on delicate fibres. 

Driftwood

Not long ago, my partner’s mum paid us a visit and brought along a bag of beautiful driftwood branches. It got me thinking – why not incorporate driftwood into my macrame wall hangings? The more I considered it, the more it made perfect sense. Macrame and beachy vibes truly go hand in hand. The organic, weathered look of driftwood complements the intricate knots and patterns of macrame in a way that adds a touch of coastal charm to your space. 

Macrame rods

So, if you ever come across driftwood during your beach combing adventures or if you’re lucky enough to have a generous gift like I did, don’t hesitate to give it a try. Your macrame creations will thank you for it, and you’ll infuse a relaxing, beachy ambiance into your home that’s hard to resist.

To prepare your driftwood for your macrame, soak it in water for a day or two to remove salt and impurities. Allow the branches or driftwood pieces to dry completely in a well-ventilated area to prevent mould growth. Once cleaned and dried, your driftwood is ready to work on.

Drumsticks

If you’re as fortunate as I am to have a drummer in your life, you’ll discover an endless supply of used drumsticks. This creative revelation came to me unexpectedly when my miniature Swiss cheese plant needed some support, and I reached for a used Vic Firth Drumstick. The idea struck me instantly – not only is it eco-friendly to repurpose used drumsticks, but it also injects my macrame wall hangings with an entirely new, musical edge. 

Before incorporating drumsticks consider giving them a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any residue. Check for splinters or rough spots and perhaps sand them lightly for a smooth finish. 

Macrame wall hanging on some drumsticks

There’s a unique charm in the drumstick’s worn texture and the rhythmic history it carries. It’s an unexpected fusion of art and music, a playful nod to creativity that adds an unconventional twist to your macrame wall hanging. So, next time you find yourself surrounded by a surplus of used drumsticks, consider giving your macrame masterpiece a touch of rhythm and harmony. Ba-dum-tish!

Macrame Rods

I recently stumbled upon a new addition to my macrame toolkit – specialised macrame rods like these. These rods, equipped with a bead at the end, might not exude the same artistic flair as driftwood or drumsticks, in my humble opinion. However, they bring an element of professionalism to your macrame wall art that’s hard to ignore. 

Purchasable from craft stores, these rods offer a clean, sleek foundation for your creations. Their understated design doesn’t overshadow the intricate knots and patterns of your macrame masterpiece but instead, provides a polished and refined look. 

So, if you’re aiming for a more polished, sophisticated aesthetic in your macrame creations, these specialised rods are undoubtedly worth considering, giving your wall art a touch of expert craftsmanship that stands out effortlessly.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the rustic charm of driftwood, the rhythmic resonance of repurposed drumsticks, or the sleek professionalism of specialised macrame rods, there’s no shortage of ways to showcase your beautiful creations. 

Remember, the beauty of macrame lies not only in the art itself but in the art of imagination. So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box – explore your surroundings and see what hidden treasures you can unearth to elevate your wall hangings. Maybe it’s a vintage ladder, a repurposed bicycle wheel, or even a forgotten garden rake. The world is your oyster, and your macrame wall art can truly shine when you let your creativity run wild!

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