History of Macramé and Basketry (G9/G10)

Summary

In this lesson on macramé and basketry, students are introduced to the origins, techniques, and cultural significance of these crafts. The teacher, Mom Melan Alo, explains the history of macramé, from its Arabic roots to its revival in the 1960s, and the long tradition of basketry across various cultures. The lesson encourages active participation, with activities such as identifying macramé and basketry items at home. Students also explore how to create their own designs and understand the importance of these crafts in modern life, from home decoration to functional uses. Overall, it's an engaging exploration of two timeless art forms.

Takeaways

• 😀 Macrame is the art of knotting cords or strings in patterns to make decorative articles.
• 😀 Basketry is the craft of making baskets, an ancient art with materials like bamboo, rattan, and abaca.
• 😀 The history of macrame dates back to the 13th century with origins in Arabic weaving and has evolved through various cultures including France, Italy, and Britain.
• 😀 Macrame became popular among British sailors in the 18th and 19th centuries, who used it for practical and decorative purposes.
• 😀 The term 'macrame' comes from the Arabic word 'migr', meaning a strip towel or embroidered velvets.
• 😀 Basketry is one of the oldest crafts, with traces of baskets found in Egyptian pyramids, and its techniques spread worldwide through exploration and trade.
• 😀 Baskets were historically essential for carrying and storing materials before the invention of metal and plastic containers.
• 😀 Macrame and basketry are both versatile, using various materials and techniques based on the availability of resources in different regions.
• 😀 Students are encouraged to be active participants, complete activities, and focus on the video lesson to better understand macrame and basketry.
• 😀 The lesson includes an activity where students must identify macrame and basketry-related words and use them in a Venn diagram, as well as a home assignment to explore their living space for items related to these crafts.

Q & A

What is macramé, and how is it different from basketry?

Macramé is the art of knotting cord or string in patterns to make decorative items, while basketry is the craft of basket making, typically using woven materials.

What historical significance does macramé hold?

Macramé originated in the 13th century, with Arabic weavers using knots to finish textiles. It gained popularity in the 19th century among British sailors and experienced a revival in the 1960s.

How did macramé evolve throughout history?

Macramé evolved from being used in church vestments and altar cloths to a popular pastime among sailors, who used it for practical purposes aboard ships and later as decorative art.

What are the practical applications of macramé in modern times?

Today, macramé is used in a variety of decorative forms, such as wall hangings, plant holders, and jewelry, and is appreciated for its versatility and aesthetic appeal.

How did basketry travel across different parts of the world?

Basketry techniques spread as explorers traded goods, and the baskets used to contain those goods influenced different cultures. These techniques were adapted to local materials and continued to evolve globally.

What materials are commonly used in basketry in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, common materials for basket weaving include bamboo, rattan, and abaca, depending on the region.

How were baskets used in ancient times?

In ancient times, baskets were essential for carrying and storing materials, especially before the advent of metal and plastic containers.

What are some common uses of baskets in modern times?

Baskets are now used not only for practical purposes such as storage and organization but also as decorative items for homes, weddings, and holidays.

What is the importance of the history of macramé and basketry?

Understanding the history of macramé and basketry allows us to appreciate the cultural and practical significance of these crafts, showing how they have evolved and adapted across different societies and time periods.

What was the role of British sailors in the development of macramé?

British sailors played a significant role in keeping macramé alive in the 18th and 19th centuries by practicing knotting techniques on long voyages and sharing their knowledge with others.