Rethinking Macramé Instruction: A Mathematical Approach to Sustainable Cord Usage in Textile Education

Abstract

Purpose: This study proposes reframing Macramé instruction within Textile education to enhance both the practical and theoretical dimensions of the curriculum, with a particular focus on sustainability. Methodology/Design: Research suggests that traditional Macramé teaching methods have remained largely unchanged, often relying on estimation and trial-and-error techniques for determining cord lengths. This lack of standardisation contributes to inefficiencies in material use and instructional delivery. To address these challenges, this study introduces a mathematically precise formula for calculating cord lengths, replacing traditional guesswork with a structured and reproducible approach. By enhancing measurement accuracy, the proposed method minimises material waste, optimises resource utilisation, and supports sustainable design practices. A combination of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses was employed to evaluate quantitative data collected from participants. Findings: The results revealed statistically significant improvements in student engagement, motivation, and overall learning outcomes post-intervention. The findings underscore the need for improved instructional resources and methodologies to enhance teaching effectiveness and sustainability in Textile education. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that integrating mathematical precision into Macramé instruction can foster innovation and efficiency in craft-based learning. The overall results (p < .001) indicate significant improvements in engagement and motivation following the intervention, reinforcing the effectiveness of a structured instructional approach in Macramé education. Practical and Social Implications: The study offers practical implications for tertiary institutions considering Macramé as a formal course of study. By providing a standardised approach to cord length calculation, it equips both instructors and students with essential skills applicable to textile and fibre arts courses. This aligns with the broader emphasis on sustainability and innovation in Ghana’s Textile education sector. Originality: This study presents a novel, mathematically grounded approach to Macramé instruction that simultaneously enhances precision, reduces material waste, and supports sustainability. It is the first of its kind to rigorously quantify the instructional outcomes of such an intervention within a textile education context in Ghana, offering scalable, data-driven strategies for integrating sustainability into craft education curricula.

Keywords

• Knot
• craft
• teaching and learning
• textile education
• cord
• macramé