Tool School: Macramé Plant Hanger Gauge

By Steve Butler

What is it?

When I ask anyone about macramé, no one ever mentions that it dates from the 13th century when it was an emerging art form produced by combining cords and knots to form intricate designs. Nor does anyone ever mention that its popularity peaked in 19th Century Victorian England when it was the “to die for” art form for all of the ladies of the age. You never hear any of that. But when anyone sees actual macramé up close they immediately start talking about the 70’s. Yea baby. Sex, drugs and rock & roll. And macramé too and probably because the 70’s was a time of self expression and nothing is more individually creative than macramé. Wall hangings, plant hangers, hats, vests, belts, skirts, shoes, jewelry, bed spreads and table runners would just be the beginning of the list of what we did with it. And what about the cording materials used? That list is almost as extensive including leather, jute, twine, linen, hemp, yarn and even wire. In fact, we can create macramé out of any long strand that is flexible to form a knot. Just pick thickness, texture and color. And don’t forget the beads. And it’s all done with just cords and knots. But not so fast. How do we put all of those cords and knots (and beads) in exactly the right place? The answer’s simple, Clover’s Macramé Plant Hanger Gauge.

What does it do?

Macramé is actually a process that produces a textile based object. As we’ve mentioned, it’s all done with cords and about six basic knots. The only difficulty arises when we are trying to line up similar knots on the adjacent strands of our project. Whether we’re making knots that are parallel or descending or even alternating on those strands one thing is for sure, we’ll need a method to ensure precise, consistent placement. And that’s where Clover’s Macramé Plant Hanger Gauge comes in. The name is somewhat of a misnomer because this amazingly useful tool applies to all macramé, not just plant hangers. Whether you are using a published pattern or a design of your own creation, the gauge allows you to quickly and precisely measure between knots. The complete kit provides two sturdy transparent plastic measuring devices. With these devices you can measure from one to ten inches between knots. The supplied jumbo wonder clip allows us to attach either measuring device to our project. Now it’s just a matter of identifying the desired measurement and tying the appropriate knot. And the best part is they’ll be perfect every time, no matter how simple or complex.

Macrame Plant Hanger Gauge
Art. No 8630

How do I share it?

It’s amazing the recognition macramé enjoys. The minute someone sees it they have to touch it, talk about it, even reminisce about it. Then they’re going to want to do it. Make some killer samples. Have a great class. Teach the basic five or six knots. Provide great cording that is soft, easy to handle and forms good knots. Start with a simple but attractive pattern. Maybe a plant hanger or even a friendship bracelet like the kids love to give out. Ensure their success and the enthusiasm will spread. The 70’s are back, baby. Clover – Effortlessly Creative.

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