I posted a story on Instagram about a macramé class I took on Sunday. Since not all of you follow Instagram, and because people have asked me about the details, I wanted to share it here too.

A friend of mine asked if I’d be interested in taking one of the workshops at Heritage Mercantile Co. The local shop is a little hidden gem and a discovery for me, carrying unique finds for the home, plus jewelry and selected apothecary goods. They also host “gatherings” to learn various crafts. We saw the offering for a macramé handbag class, and signed up.

Although it took me the whole day, I stayed an additional two hours after the class ended with a couple of other women and completed the project. I chose to work on a simple, cross-body style with a somewhat tight weave that would securely contain most items. I thought it could also be used as my first cross-body beach bag, when I don’t need a full tote. The size is perfect for the essentials – sunscreen, glasses, book, phone, etc., as long as I enclose them in a sand proof clutch or add a knotted scarf insert first.

After learning and practicing a series of knots to get the hang of it, we moved on to making a strap, then the body of the bag. Like sewing, everything is done inside-out. I have to say, it was therapeutic focusing on something so intently. As soon as I let my mind wander, I would mess up the direction of the knots and pattern. I found I worked best and most efficiently when I could keep a rhythm going.

Our teacher, Jo Abellera, was incredible sweet and beyond patient with the different learning skills of eight women. Along with occasional workshops, she is the designer of KKIBO, a beautiful collection of handmade items utilizing her talent in crochet, knitting, weaving and macramé.

It was a fun day, but more than walking away with my new macramé bag, I love that I learned something new. My next macrame project will be making a similar bag in leather, with Jo’s guidance, of course.