Laurentine Périlhou

Macramé maker

©marion saettele

Making macramé noble again

The knot is Laurentine’s means of expression
She discovered macramé in Chile
She collaborates with luxury fashion houses and interior designers

An absolute trust in the potential of macramé was all Laurentine Périlhou and her companion Clément needed to embark on a career path with this craft. The couple discovered the art of knotting while on a trip to Chile, in 2008. They were particularly fascinated by the work of a master craftsman, Felipe, who had a unique way of applying the technique. Seduced by the skill, Laurentine and Clément started to create macramé jewellery. From unexpected encounters to a young designer's award, their work soon became noticed, to the point of being contacted by the haute couture maison Jean Paul Gaultier. This was the beginning of an exciting expansion. Today, Laurentine continues to revive macramé through many projects, “being at the service of a savoir-faire, to bring it into the modern age.”

Interview

©marion saettele

©marion saettele

When did you decide to start working with macramé?: From the moment I discovered the techniques, I realised that we could go much further with creations. I was young, I did not know anything about the industry of crafts, but I knew I had a textile know-how in my hands, and I did not want to let it go.
What drove you to where you are now?: I am very keen to give macramé its rightful place in the world of textiles: to promote it in the same way as embroidery or lace. After creating jewellery, I realised that it was the know-how that interested me more than the jewel-object. I practise macramé as a technical and artistic skill.
What specific techniques do you apply in your workshop?: I attach great importance to development and innovation. I take the time to go further in the mastering of this craft, either by collaborating with other craftspeople or by mixing techniques. At the core, I have a real desire to give people a new, different image of macramé.
What would you suggest to a young person who wants to pursue this craft?: Go for it. If you feel that it is right, go for it, make mistakes, try again. The more people there are practising this craft, the more we can revive the technique and blossom with it. There is room for everyone.

Laurentine Périlhou is a master artisan: she began her career in 2009 and she started teaching in 2012