International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Pratishtha Verma, Surabhi Mahajan and Srishti Tewari

abstract
Macrame is a creative technique that involves creating practical and decorative items through intricate knotting using cords, ropes, or stringsto create visually appealing patterns, was widely practiced by women decades ago. However, like many traditional crafts, its popularity has waned over time. The study was conducted to explore the awareness about awareness about macrame art and acceptance of sketches of macrame dresses among college-going girls. It focuses on developing macrame dress designs through pencil sketching of dresses based on selected textile waste materials, resulting in ten sketches categorized under cotton thread, chiffon fabric, artificial leather, wool thread, and satin ribbon. To explore the awareness of macrame art, a study was conducted across three colleges in Ludhiana. The responses were collected from 90 college-going girls (18-26 years old). Out of 90 respondents, significantly 66 percent of the respondents were familiar with macrame and also practiced macrame at home, 22 percent of respondents were familiar with macrame but never practiced macrame due to lack of time, and 12 percent were not aware of macrame. Moreover, 52 percent of the respondents possessed macrame items such as bracelets, wall hangings, and belts. The dress designs were selected on the respondents' preferences. The majority of respondents favored multi-color combinations (42%) and knee-length dresses (61%) and Sleeveless dresses were overwhelmingly preferred (72%). For embellishments, beads, and buttons were the top choices among respondents. The respondents preferred A1 under cotton thread sketch with a maximum weighted mean score of 3.21. The first rank for chiffon fabric sketch was given to B1 with a maximum weightage mean score of 3.21. For the artificial leather fabric sketch, C2 with a weighted mean score of 3.01 was selected by the respondents. For wool thread and satin ribbon sketches, D1 and E2 were given first rank with a maximum weighted mean score of 3.19 and 3.03. The respondents attributed their awareness of macrame to their fashion design studies, whereas their peers in different departments remained unaware of this craft. This study suggests a necessity for providing macrame training to girls in various courses, ensuring the continued awareness and conservation of this ancient art. The study concludes that sketches serve as a crucial visual representation of the designer's vision, acting as a blueprint for the final product.