Macramé is so popular right now, and with artists and books like this, it’s easy to see why. Terri Watson sat down with us to talk about her debut book, New School Macramé.
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Terri, and I hail from humour-loving Eastern Canada. To my friends and family, I am known as a nomad. I’ve always had an enduring curiosity about this world we live in, and as a result have visited over 36 countries. In my travel career I’ve lived in Switzerland and Nicaragua and Australia, but for now, I’m back home and living the dream in Nova Scotia, eh.
Tell us a bit about your new book?
New School Macramé pays homage to my favourite knot, and it is the first book of its kind to feature entirely vertical clove hitch knot projects. I am proud to have played a part in pioneering this style of macramé, and it’s an honour to put my techniques to print so I can share some of what I’ve created with the world in a different way.
Where do you look for inspiration?
My fibre art is quite frequently influenced by mid-century design – it is often a bit quirky, and always a lot of fun. The clean lines, symmetry, and colour palettes from the 60s and 70s have a huge place in my heart. I love to look at wallpaper, typography, and graphic design from days gone by for inspiration. My work is also often born from some serious pun action – it’s all about those lolz because a day without laughter is…just kidding, I have no idea.
What is your favourite project/technique featured?
I love the ‘Sunsational Denim Jacket’ project, not only because it pushed the boundaries of my craft, but because it is the first wearable artwork that I’ve created. It will be pure joy if I ever see someone wearing one in the wild!
What is the most challenging thing about being a designer/artist?
I would say my biggest challenge is finding the time to do all the things I want to do with my business and my art, because I am a one-woman show. So many ideas, so little time to execute!
What makes up for the challenges?
I have found an incredible community of artists who have become like family, and having these folks in my corner, cheering me on, has made a lot of the hard work worth it. Not to mention being approached, out of the blue, to write a book – that says a lot to me about how the world sees me and my work!
Who (dead or alive) would you invite to the perfect Crafting retreat?
I’d have to say my Grandma Watson, who passed on several years ago, because she taught me these knots. It would be extraordinary for her to see how far I’ve come with the craft she taught me as an 8-year-old girl. I think she would be proud of me for my ability to reinvent myself, and make a career out of fibre art. She herself was an extremely talented crochet artist whose gifts I always admired.
In one word, how would you describe your book?
Revolutionary