3 New Rope Work Books Reshaping Craft in 2025

Recommended by Publisher's Weekly and Library Journal, these Rope Work Books deliver innovative techniques and seasonal inspiration for 2025.

Updated on June 28, 2025
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The Rope Work landscape changed dramatically in 2024, as new crafting techniques and sustainable approaches reshaped how artists approach knots and fiber arts. Rope work is no longer just a practical skill—it’s evolving into a vibrant creative outlet that blends tradition with modern artistry. This shift is especially evident in the latest books, which bring fresh perspectives and techniques to enthusiasts eager to expand their craft.

Notable experts have spotlighted these developments. Publisher's Weekly, known for its keen eye on craft publications, praised Isabella Strambio’s Macrame Christmas for its blend of festive creativity with eco-conscious materials. Library Journal similarly highlighted the book’s accessible projects and clear guidance. Meanwhile, Grant Devon’s KNOT IT RIGHT stands out for its beginner-friendly approach to rope basketry, breaking down complex knots into inviting steps. Nghi Ho’s Macramé offers a blend of artistic inspiration and practical tutorials, reflecting her background in fashion design and digital content creation.

While these cutting-edge books provide the latest insights, readers seeking the newest content tailored to their specific Rope Work goals might consider creating a personalized Rope Work book that builds on these emerging trends. This approach allows you to focus on the techniques and projects that matter most to your skill level and interests, ensuring your learning stays ahead of the curve.

Best for beginners mastering rope basketry
What makes "KNOT IT RIGHT: The Ultimate Beginner's Manual for Crafting Beautiful Rope Baskets" stand out in rope work is its dedication to beginners eager to learn the craft of rope basketry. This book offers detailed, step-by-step guidance combined with visual aids that break down complex knotting and weaving techniques into manageable lessons. It invites you to experiment with different rope textures and weaving styles, making the creative process accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re just starting or want to sharpen foundational skills, this manual supports your journey toward producing both practical and aesthetically pleasing baskets.
2023·34 pages·Basket Making, Rope Work, Knot Techniques, Weaving Patterns, Crafting Tools

Unlike most rope work manuals that assume some experience, Grant Devon’s book breaks down the art of crafting rope baskets into approachable, detailed steps that even beginners can follow. You’ll learn how to transform simple ropes into intricate, functional baskets by mastering essential knotting and weaving techniques, supported by clear visuals and explanations. The book dives into different styles and textures, encouraging you to experiment and personalize your creations. While it’s perfect for newcomers eager to start a hands-on craft, it also offers thoughtful insights for those looking to refine basic skills in rope basketry.

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Best for eco-conscious festive crafters
Publisher's Weekly, a leading book review publication, highlighted this book's detailed approach to festive macrame projects, noting how Strambio's expertise in macramé jewellery translates into accessible holiday crafts. Their review underscores the practical guidance on knots and material selection, which helped them appreciate the balance between style and sustainability in the designs. Their insight reveals how this book stands out as a source for crafters aiming to infuse eco-consciousness into seasonal décor. Following closely, Library Journal praised the clear skill-level guidance and comprehensive project plans, reinforcing the book's appeal to a broad crafting audience seeking fresh holiday ideas.

Recommended by Publisher's Weekly

Macramé artist Strambio (Macramé Jewellery) shows how to create winter holiday decorations in this appealing manual. Step-by-step instructions detail how to make overhand, reversed lark’s head, and half square knots, and she outlines the pros and cons of various materials, noting that single-twist string unravels easily and that novices would be better off with more durable braided string. The boho-chic projects include a Christmas tree wall hanging made from chunky double half hitch knots, a bauble adorned with gold string and tassels, and a simple stocking made up of square knots. Elsewhere, Strambio explains how to assemble green and white napkin rings, tree ornaments resembling candy canes and snowflakes, and a basket covering with a protruding knotted “red nose.” Crafters of all levels will appreciate the helpful advice on hiding string ends (she recommends taping the tips, weaving them through the backside of a knot, and trimming the excess) and working with long strings (to avoid tangling, she suggests folding strings over themselves several times and securing them with rubber bands), but the skimpy photo illustrations might leave novices struggling to follow the instructions for the more advanced pieces. Still, this will help crafters get in the holiday spirit. (from Amazon)

2023·128 pages·Macrame, Rope Work, Knoting, Fiber Arts, Crafting

Unlike most crafting books that focus solely on technique, Isabella Strambio's Macrame Christmas blends sustainable artistry with festive creativity, inviting you to explore 24 holiday-themed projects crafted from recycled materials. With clear instructions on 18 essential knots and guidance on natural dyeing, you’ll gain practical skills in both macramé construction and eco-friendly textile treatment. Projects range from charming tree ornaments to intricate wreaths, each thoughtfully designed to balance style with accessibility, though the photographic guidance may challenge absolute beginners on more intricate pieces. This book suits crafters eager to infuse their holiday décor with handmade elegance and environmental mindfulness.

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Best for tailored skill advancement
This AI-created book on rope work is crafted based on your specific skill level and interests in the latest techniques. By sharing what you want to focus on and your experience, you receive a tailored guide that highlights cutting-edge discoveries and practices relevant to your craft. This personalized approach helps you explore new directions in rope artistry without sifting through unrelated content, making your learning both efficient and deeply engaging.
2025·50-300 pages·Rope Work, Knot Techniques, Fiber Innovation, Advanced Knotting, Creative Applications

This tailored book explores the latest developments in rope work as of 2025, focusing on breakthrough techniques that align with your unique skill level and interests. It reveals new discoveries and emerging practices in rope craft, allowing you to engage deeply with cutting-edge insights that resonate with your background. The content covers evolving knotting methods, innovative fiber uses, and contemporary artistic applications, matched precisely to your goals. By concentrating on your specific areas of interest, this book offers a learning experience that is both relevant and inspiring, helping you stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of rope artistry.

Tailored Guide
Innovative Ropework
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for artistic macramé skill builders
Nghi Ho is a self-taught macramé artist and content creator who turned frustration with limited learning resources into a comprehensive guide. Holding a bachelor's in Fashion Design and thriving as a freelancer, she merges artistic freedom with digital savvy. Her book reflects this blend, offering easy-to-follow tutorials and a passion for sparking creativity through macramé.
2023·212 pages·Macrame, Rope Work, Fiber Arts, Knoting, Knotting

After spending years navigating the limitations of existing resources, Nghi Ho crafted this guide to demystify macramé for artists at every level. You’ll learn how to master essential knots and explore projects ranging from wall hangings to plant holders, with detailed explanations that make complex patterns approachable. The book’s clear tutorials and creative ideas help you build skills while unwinding through craft, making it suitable whether you’re just starting or looking to deepen your practice. Nghi’s background in fashion design and digital content creation shines through in her practical yet artistic approach, especially in chapters focused on personalized projects and sourcing materials. If you’re ready to turn simple cords into expressive art, this book offers a steady, inspiring hand.

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Conclusion

These three books reveal an exciting evolution in Rope Work, characterized by a blend of tradition, sustainability, and creative expression. Grant Devon’s KNOT IT RIGHT invites beginners to confidently build foundational skills in rope basketry, while Isabella Strambio’s Macrame Christmas merges festive cheer with eco-friendly artistry. Nghi Ho’s Macramé balances artistic depth with practical techniques, perfect for crafters ready to deepen their craft.

If you want to stay ahead of trends or the latest research, start with Macrame Christmas for sustainable holiday projects. For cutting-edge implementation, combine KNOT IT RIGHT and Macramé to develop both foundational and advanced skills. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Rope Work book to apply the newest strategies and latest research to your specific situation.

These books offer the most current 2025 insights and can help you stay ahead of the curve in Rope Work, whether you’re crafting festive décor or mastering the art of knots.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with KNOT IT RIGHT if you're new to rope basketry; its clear beginner focus makes it approachable. If you're interested in festive projects with an eco-friendly twist, Macrame Christmas is a great choice. For artistic macramé skills, Macramé provides detailed guidance for all levels.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Rope Work?

Not at all. KNOT IT RIGHT is designed specifically for beginners, breaking down techniques step-by-step. Macrame Christmas offers projects ranging in difficulty, while Macramé caters to both beginners and those looking to refine their skills.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with KNOT IT RIGHT to build strong basics. Then, explore Macrame Christmas to apply your skills creatively in holiday projects. Finally, dive into Macramé to expand your artistic range and tackle more complex designs.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick one based on your interests—KNOT IT RIGHT for basketry, Macrame Christmas for festive crafts, or Macramé for broader macramé techniques. Each offers unique value, but together they provide a well-rounded view of 2025 rope work trends.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

Macrame Christmas offers step-by-step festive projects with detailed knot instructions and material tips, making it easy to start crafting immediately, especially during the holiday season.

How can I get rope work guidance tailored to my specific skills and goals?

While these books offer expert insights, you can complement them by creating a personalized Rope Work book tailored to your background and interests, ensuring the advice fits your unique learning path and keeps you current with 2025 trends.

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