Learning a New, Ancient Skill

The Cibola County Arts Council has regular weekend events that bring families and the community together.

Friday, February 24, the event was Turkish Macrame’. Youth Art Camp Director and skilled craftsperson, Myriah Scarpati led the attending group in making beaded macrame’ bracelets.

While the result looks complicated, it wasn’t difficult once Scarpati demonstrated the macrame’ method. She set up each participating macrame’ weaver with twine and supplied the beads. She then demonstrated the weaving pattern which was a square knot repeated and at intervals we chose, we added beads to our bracelets.

The first step was to cut two pieces of twine, one shorter than the other. Next, fold them in half and create a loop in the middle. Tie them together with a knot, leaving the loop at the top. Secure the loop to a solid base like a table, using duct tape. The twine should have the longer pieces on the sides, one on the left and one on the right, with the two shorter pieces in the center. Next, make an L shape with one of the longer strands, fold it under the other strands and loop through itself, pull tight. Repeat with the other long strand and continue back and forth creating square knots. The beads can be added wherever the weaver likes them, and then continue the knots.

Measure the width of your wrist if you are making a bracelet. When you are finished weaving, add a larger bead, and secure it with two knots. The larger bead should fit through the original loop and now you have a bracelet.

It was fun to participate with the group and make new friends while we made a project we will wear proudly. When the group left the gallery, they were wearing their bracelets that they had made and were happy to have spent such a pleasant, sociable afternoon.

Gallery events, their times and dates are posted regularly in the Cibola Citizen.