A process of knotting string in patterns to make decorative pieces, it lends itself to a “world of different styles”, according to Deloraine artist Leanne Ames. 

Ms Ames has been creating large knotted macrame features since the early 1970s. 

These days, the artist is based at Deloraine Creative Studios, where she creates up to four large pieces a year. 

Using a range of materials, including rope, twine, jute, wool and cotton, Ms Ames said her inspiration comes from spending time in the wilderness – something Tasmania lends itself to perfectly.  

“I have been coming and going from Tasmania for about 30 years,” she said.

“Everything that I saw here, the wilderness, smell of the earth and moss.

“It all becomes part of the process.”

Being inspired by nature is something that lends itself to Ms Ames entire creative process, with each piece taking up to four months to complete. 

When it comes to adding colour, her interest lies in exploratory dying techniques.

This includes natural methods of extracting colours from plant materials. 

Using fire, she describes the process as “an extension of the discovery” she feels in the wilderness – all emotions she invests into her work. 

“The ancient old craft of natural dying and its surprising outcomes never fail to amaze me,” she said. 

“The texture, flexibility, that it is grown from the earth, the bits and pieces of bark present in the fibres, the rawness of it all.

“Also the biodegradability, if left in the environment, would return to the earth.

“The techniques of knotting, weaving and sumak mix well together to create harmony.”

Like many artists, Ms Ames said she never sets out with a particular plan when it comes to her pieces.

Rather, she lets the inspiration come to her and while the detail in her work is impressive, she says the art of macrame itself is relatively simple. 

“I think many people would be surprised at how simple the technique can be,” she said. 

“There are a few basic knots, which can take on many forms and shapes.

“To work to a design – I never stick to it. It’s not a constant process, I have to wait for the inspiration.”

As for what makes macrame so popular, Ms Ames believes the beauty is all in the eye of the beholder. 

“When the pieces hang on a wall, the can completely transform a space,” she said.

“People are really drawn to them. I think it is a real spiritual thing.”