The behind-the-scenes of my collaboration with Leslie Ann Wigon

Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to spend a week in the heart of London creating a large art macrame installation for a gorgeous townhouse. Collaborating with the amazing and inspiring Leslie Ann Wigon was an absolute dream come true, and I was honoured to be able to execute one of her designs for her client.

I won’t be able to share any full pictures of the macrame installation, but I can share some details and the list of the tools that were essential for the success of this project.

The project’s standards were extremely high, and from the start I knew I had to use only the best tools and materials. To maximise the best outcome for this macrame installation, I decided to use Bobbiny products for the rope and string, known for their outstanding quality and the fact that they’re made from recycled cotton. For the details and pop of colours, I selected bamboo string to create a natural sheen, and gold thread for an understated luxury feel.

To create such a large macrame installation for interiors, I had to have the best tools with me. In this blog post, I’ll share the top four tools that were essential for the success of the project, as well as some extra tools that made the experience even better.

Please grab a cup of tea and join me as we dive into the magical world of macrame, where creativity meets elegance in the bustling backdrop of London.

1- Tape Measure

The tape measures were crucial to ensure the measurements of the macrame installation where perfect.

I brought two with me, one long (5 meters) and one short (3 meters). The long tape measure was used to help me cut long strings (some of which were 15 meters long), while the shorter and less heavy tape measure was used to check the design’s gaps, distance, and heights.

2- Macrame Rules

Macrame rules were also essential in this particular project.

The rules you see in the picture below were gifted to me by Claire @Hookedincotton and helped me space the lines of double-half hitches evenly with ease, and keeping the rope steady while working on the overall macrame installation. The set comes with four heights and a ruler on one of them, which is also handy when you want to double-check the spacing.

3- Cotton Gloves

For this macrame installation I knotted for up to 6 hours in a row with short breaks.

The cotton gloves were an absolute must-have for this project. I had to pull the strings tight to achieve the desired tension. I must say that bringing cotton gloves prevented me from having rope burns on my first day. This can be challenging and render you inoperable.

Safety Tip:

It’s crucial to remember to take care of your body and hands while working on a project like this. A nice hand moisturizer at the end of the day can also be very helpful to nourish your amazing fingers! I got mine on Amazon here.

4- EZ Beader

I learned that the EZ beader was a must-have to finish the macrame installation! I could neatly end the project without ruining the strings and pulling the wrong thread.

Another lesson learned is that I only had one with me on-site! Next time I’ll make sure to have an extra one, just in case! I was terrified that it might break from the pulling. I got mine on Amazon here.

Always bring extra tools

Bringing some extra tools made the experience of installing this large macrame art piece even better.

Sharp Scissors

This is a must to complete the piece and trim all the ropes neatly. I recommend all my students this one here.

Sheets

I covered part of the floor with sheets I brought from home. This helped me keeping an area clean and dust-free where I could be measuring and cutting my ropes.

Tripod + Phone/camera

To take photos and videos for social media, the website, and for myself! Mine is from Uniqu Store here.

Masking tape

To tape the end of the strings and rope and avoid unwanted unravelling.

Music

A must-have as well since I was knotting alone in the house for six hours a day. A podcast or ebook is also a good alternative to keep you company while working on a project like this.

Mask

I brought a mask even though I didn’t end up using it. But it’s a must have if you’re asthmatic! The cotton dust can be very irritating. Better use a mask if you are using a particular type of string, to avoid breathing in the dust.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, creating a large art rope installation requires careful planning and preparation. Using high-quality materials and the best tools is crucial to the success of the project. Taking care of your body and hands while working on a project like this is also essential.

If you are looking for a rope or macrame custom-made installation or artwork, feel free to contact me. I would be honoured to work with you to bring to life a unique piece for your space.

Before starting my macrame business, I spent 15 years as an Interior designer in residential, and hospitality projects around the world. I therefore understand the importance of having high standards and attention to detail.

NOTE- I might get a very small commission from some of the Amazon links.