by Omeshnie Naidoo
Hanging planters were among the most iconic pieces of the swinging 1970s, which have been in vogue for some time now.
Consider the hand-crafted element and you’re on to a hot, new/old trend.
Hlabekile Nyoni did.
The 33-year-old textile designer of Umbilo in Durban, began making macrame items a year ago and already has a contract with a national fast-food franchise and an internationally recognised design store, also founded in KwaZulu-Natal.
Macrame is a form of textile-making using knotting rather than weaving or knitting, says Nyoni.
“This all started early last year after coming across a macrame accessory. I remembered a few knots I had learnt, albeit 17 years ago back at school, and once I started, I immediately fell in love.
“I made a few accessories. This then led to me venturing to more detailed and bigger products like macrame room dividers.”
She says she has always had a passion for art and thanks to her design training, knew there was more she could venture into.
“With macrame there are only decorative knots, no hooks, needles, gadgets or tools are needed. Just your hands and a length of yarn. Intricate patterns and designs can be created to use as furnishings, wall hangings, fashion accessories and clothing.
“The old craft is also enjoying its way back into fashion. For me it’s macrame but with a modern twist. Think of popular colour trends such as ombre or simply more hip shades than your mom might have kept a fern in back in the day.”
Nyoni is the director of Design Spectrum Media and Macrame and works with her partners husband, Emmanuel Nhemachena, and her sister, Linnet Nyoni, to produce wall hangings, plant hangers, hanging mirrors, room dividers, hand bags, lamp shades, lamp holders, table runners, wedding backdrops, macrame woven chairs, hanging chairs and much more.
“Each piece is handmade and individual, which is why we prefer the market space. However, we have a contract making chairs for Nandos and have begun doing work for the highly acclaimed interior design company EGG Design.”
“Our latest product is the large rounded papasan chair (which has proven to be very popular at recent trade shows). With macrame there is so much that one can do.
“So far our initial challenge has been introducing the trend to the market. Since macrame was at its most popular in the 1970s most of the youngsters are not very familiar with the art. But we are grateful that macrame is becoming a popular trend.”
Nyoni says, “Our future plans are to grow the business/art internationally. We intend to open an interior design store for all things macrame.
“We believe in imparting knowledge to the present generation so our next step will be to run workshops and empower young women in the communities who are less privileged and unemployed.
“We believe that working with your hands is the best gift and it is one that no one can take away from you.”