Macrame hanging planters are a thing of the past. The patterns to recreate that lost arts from the 1970s are difficult to find, at best. The knowledge necessary to successfully create an even, straight planter is certainly missing from America's younger generation.
Embracing the history of our country is a great pastime. My house was originally built in the 1970s, and I have been decorating and designing it to be true to form.
Vertical gardening is one of the most efficient methods when it comes to space and urban homesteading. There is no reason edibles or fodder plants can't be grown in hanging baskets. It ain't just about flowers anymore!
I would like to start posting some older macrame patterns as I find them. Keep in mind that I did not write the patterns, but since the copyrights are over 40 years old, they become public domain. It is not my intent to thieve intellectual property from 40 years ago, but rather to promote a revival in artistic vertical gardening, whether one chooses traditional or modern techniques.
Macrame can be done with traditional ropes like hemp, cotton, or jute, or it can be done with modern synthetic poly blends. Some of the cheapest cords may be labeled for clothesline, paracord, or other purposes. Some cordage will stretch when the plant is added. Larger, heavier planters need a thicker cord or will look awkward when completed. The synthetic ropes will last longer in the outdoors than the natural fibers. In general, the more knots your planter has, the more rope it requires to make it.
For the planters, I recommend plastic or another lightweight, perhaps recycled, container. Terra cotta looks great for photographs, but are impractical due to their weight and fragility as a plant's hanging home. Care should be used to make sure plastic planters are sturdy, and if good looks are desired, then painted some appropriate colors. Some ideas for recycled planters might include #10 cans and 2 liter soda bottles with drainage holes drilled. Smaller pots tend to need water more frequently during warm weather, but this can also depend on the type of soil mixture you choose to plant with.
I recommend composted rabbit manure as a powerful organic soil medium. Of course, I am biased, because I have the rabbits and the manure is amazing.
Later I will be creating an Etsy shop to sell macrame planters, macrame instructions, antiques, handmade soap, dried herbs, antique cookbooks, and various other small items.