Mindful Macramé

“Macramé is yoga for the mind,” according to this soothing manual. Strambio (Macramé Christmas) describes how the repetitive knotting involved in macramé helps her focus and “connects me to myself,” and she provides 17 projects aimed at fostering that meditative state of mind. They’re organized according to the amount of time required to complete them, with the bulky necklace made from lark’s head knots and the trivet created from double half hitch knots estimated to take less than 30 minutes. Intermediate projects that require less than an hour include a coaster, place mat, and plant hanger, while the most complex projects, which take more than an hour, include a coiled wall hanging, another hanging resembling a large feather, and a stout basket. Each project features reflection prompts encouraging readers to ponder such questions as “what colour do you feel today” and “what are you anxious or feeling negative about.” Breathing exercises urge readers to envision moonlight “wrapping you up in a warm and safe hug,” a butterfly “gently breaking” out of its cocoon, and roots sprouting from one’s feet and reaching into the earth. The prompts and exercises add a meditative spin on what would otherwise be a fairly straightforward macramé guide. This will help crafters unwind.  * Publishers Weekly * Bringing the simplicity of knot-based crafting to the forefront with another book of lovely projects for knotting enthusiasts, Strambio (Macramé Jewellery; Macramé for the Modern Home) melds creative projects with something many living in our modern world seek—mindfulness and self-reflection. Instructions for eye-catching projects ranging from simple flower decorations, trivets, and key chains to the more skilled plant hangers, wall hangings, and baskets guide crafters through steps, with recommendations for materials to make the most of your art and paired with prompts for journaling reflectively. This book might not scream “beginner macramé,” even with clear step-by-step pictures of the projects, because not every crafter finds knots easy to grasp, though paired with other books on the topic by Strambio and other macramé experts, it would easily give enough instruction to get novices started. As is recommended at the beginning of each project in the book, take three deep breaths and get ready to enjoy some relaxing craft time. VERDICT: Communities that enjoy crafting and mindfulness will embrace this book of projects, journaling opportunities, and simple meditative prompts. -- Elizabeth Majka * Library Journal * This gorgeous book is all about combining the art of macrame with mindfulness, featuring stunning projects, breathing exercises and reflective journal prompts. It’s been such a lovely source of inspiration for the retreat day and macrame workshops I’ve got coming up over the next few weeks. It would make a perfect gift for a crafty person (or just yourself!) as it’s perfect for encouraging you to slow down, get creative and make something beautiful. * @snuggle.and.squish *