It's no secret that macramé is back and while it still holds a little of that 1970’s free spirited charm your mom remembers, it has evolved into a modern movement taking on many styles ranging from minimal to boho. The age-old craft of knotting is experiencing a contemporary renaissance, and everyone wants in on it. At the forefront of this movement is Emily Katz, an artist with a knack for knotting that’s been lighting up our radar for some time now. She teaches sold out macramé workshops around the world while creating complex and out-of-the-box hand-knotted pieces like rugs, light fixtures and headboards. When Emily came to us with the news of a nationwide tour pending the release of her book, Modern Macramé, we were thrilled. In a nutshell, the book is “the ultimate guide to creating and styling modern macramé projects in the home.”
The tour will touch over 45 cities across the U.S. over the course of three months and comprise of over 60 workshops, book signings and dinner parties. The book will be available to the public on May 15th with the tour kicking off the same day with a party at Schoolhouse Electric in Portland (yes, that Schoolhouse Electric) followed by a workshop taught in her very own studio the next day. We spoke with Emily about the path that led her to a nationwide tour, her motivation behind it and even some exclusive macramé tips for any level of knotter.
How did this tour come about? Why did you decide to do it?
"I always dreamed of traveling for work. I never thought it would be with macramé, let alone to support the launch of my book! This tour has been on my mind for years, ever since starting the book. I wanted to drive across the country, see the landscape, visit new cities, connect to people in their own towns. That is why we are headed to over 45 cities to teach nearly 60 workshops, host book signing celebrations, and fun pop ups from May 15-August 15th! Even with the reach of social media, I find so much importance in connecting in person. Craft brings people together, and I hope this book and tour continues to help build and grow this community of curious crafters, makers and enthusiasts.
My book, Modern Macramé (out on Ten Speed Press) is not just for Macramé fans. It is filled with over 100 lush interior inspiration photos (shot by Nicole Franzen) featuring each of the projects in at least 2 locations across the world."
Do you have any tips for at home macramé-ers?
"I would love to share a few tips for styling macramé in your home from the book:
It's always good to add texture. On your wall with a woven wall hanging, but macramé isn't just for your walls. Try your hand at one of the rug patterns, a chair or rope swing, or maybe a lantern to add a touch of the handmade to any room in the house!"
How can we stay up to date with the Modern Macramé tour?
"To follow along the tour, head over to Instagram and follow @modernmacrame and also me personally at @emily_katz. We will also be sharing our favorite city tips, travel tricks, and more for 3 months of life on the road!"
See all tour dates and locations to find a workshop near you →
