The 1970s Craft That Came Roaring Back
Macramé—the fiber art of knotting cord into decorative patterns—experienced an unexpected revival starting around 2015, shedding its dated reputation to become a boho-chic staple of millennial home decor. What grandmother made in avocado-green nylon became Instagram-worthy in neutral cotton cord and minimalist geometric patterns.
Pinterest searches for “macramé” increased 400% between 2014-2016, driven by the bohemian aesthetic trend, houseplant boom, and DIY wedding decoration culture. Large wall hangings ($80-300 from Etsy shops, $15-40 in materials DIY) became focal points above beds and sofas. Macramé plant hangers enabled vertical gardening in rental apartments where wall holes weren’t allowed.
The Knot Revival
Modern macramé embraced natural cotton cord in white, cream, and beige versus the synthetic rainbow yarns of the 1970s. Patterns simplified to geometric designs: chevrons, diamonds, spirals, and fringe. The square knot, spiral knot, half-hitch, and lark’s head knot formed the foundation that thousands of beginners learned via YouTube tutorials.
The craft’s meditative, repetitive nature appealed to crafters seeking screen-free relaxation. No special tools required—just cord (3mm-6mm twisted or braided cotton), scissors, a dowel or hoop, and patience. Starter kits ($25-40) from brands like Ganxxet and Modern Macramé lowered barriers to entry.
From Hobby to Business
Etsy sellers like Himo Art and Woodhappen turned macramé into six-figure businesses, shipping wall hangings worldwide. Wedding industry demand exploded for ceremony backdrops, table runners, and chair decorations. Baby nursery decor, car rearview mirror charms, and keychains expanded the market beyond wall art.
The sustainability angle appealed to eco-conscious consumers: natural fibers, handmade versus mass-produced, and often made-to-order. However, the global cotton supply chain and carbon footprint of shipping large, lightweight items complicated the “sustainable” narrative. Appropriation concerns surfaced around Arabic, Chinese, and Indigenous knotting traditions being marketed as trendy Western decor.
By 2020-2023, macramé maintained steady popularity without the explosive growth of earlier years. The market saturated with both professional makers and hobbyists selling pieces. Thrifted vintage macramé from the 1970s became collectible as a nostalgic alternative to new creations. The craft remained accessible and popular among beginners seeking tactile, forgiving fiber art projects.
Sources: Pinterest trend reports, Etsy macramé category growth, Modern Macramé book sales, Instagram hashtag analytics