Tamar makes large-scale macrame tapestries from her cozy living room workspace

Today we’re talking to Tamar Samplonius from TamarThings in the Netherlands. Her incredible (and large!) macrame tapestries are truly a thing to behold, and all of her work is done from a cozy nook in her living room.

Check out the full interview below, and be sure to visit her website, Etsy store, and Instagram to see more of her work. You can also buy patterns for some of her works via Lanaa Studio.

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What do you make? What do you consider your best or favorite work?

I mostly create large-scale macrame tapestries! 

I love working with natural materials and incorporating fun and unique elements in my designs.

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My absolute favorite piece would be ‘Canyon’. This was the first time I worked with this much color and it really changed my mind. I still love neutrals but I’m not afraid to use a pop of color anymore. 😉

I’ve since created 2 pieces inspired by Canyon, those are among my favorites too!

Tell us about your tiny workshop

My current workshop is actually my living room and I’m not mad about it! 

I often walk past it and tie a few knots. 🙂

Read also: Best macrame classes online

I’ve just recently ‘upgraded’ my working situation by building a massive wooden rack. Before I used to work with clothes racks, but with large pieces that just wasn’t ideal.

Now I can safely tighten my knots without collapsing those clothes racks.

How long have you been doing your craft? Who taught you or where did you learn?

I’ve been creating macrame for almost 3 years already, time flies! 

I’ve taught myself by studying sketchy diagrams of knots and just experimenting, haha.

Luckily it’s a lot easier these days, there are so many great video tutorials on YouTube and DIY patterns available (I offer some too, in my Etsy shop).

Read also: Macrame cord: Where to buy and how to choose

Any advice for beginners to your craft?

If you are just starting out with macrame I would really recommend to practice and create with the intention of just having fun. 

I see lots of makers who are just starting out and they immediately try to create stuff to sell. This takes away the fun which is the most important part! 

And a macrame tip is to try and keep your tension even. This will make sure your designs look clean. 

Who/what inspires you? Any shoutouts to fellow makers?

Nature is always a main source of inspiration (I know it sounds cliche but it’s true!).

Some fellow makers I absolutely adore are:

@cindy.zell (Instagram)  – Her handspun rope is amazing! 

@theeddylineco (Instagram) – Her eye for color ♡

@elanbyrd (Instagram) – Texture, texture, texture! 

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Find more of Tamar’s work on her website, as well as her Instagram (@tamarsamplonius) and Etsy store.