OSHAWA WORKSHOP FIELD GUIDE
Knot & Shop at Parkwood: Spend Three Hours Crafting a Reusable Macramé Market Bag in Oshawa
A beginner-friendly, three-hour hands-on workshop at Parkwood National Historic Site teaching basic macramé knots and techniques so participants leave with a ready-to-use eco-friendly tote.
Knot & Shop at Parkwood: Spend Three Hours Crafting a Reusable Macramé Market Bag in Oshawa.
At Parkwood National Historic Site in Oshawa, Knot & Shop is a relaxed, hands-on macramé workshop led by maker Melissa of Hiraya Crystal and Chord. In a focused three-hour session you learn the essentials of cord selection and foundational knots, work the net-like alternating square-knot pattern that lets the bag stretch for groceries, and finish the piece with wrapped handles — emerging with a stylish, reusable tote and the confidence to craft more.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Learn core macramé knots and construction
The class covers the essentials of macramé materials and techniques: selecting and preparing cord, the Lark's Head Knot and Square Knot, alternating square knots to form the stretchable bag body, and a wrapping technique for sturdy handles.
A sustainable alternative to single‑use bags
Participants craft an eco-friendly market bag intended as a chic, reusable replacement for single-use plastic bags.
Short, focused workshop with a finished takeaway
In a three-hour hands-on session you complete a market bag to take home, with step-by-step guidance suited to beginners and those refreshing their skills.
What the day feels like
What the Workshop Feels Like
The workshop unfolds as a guided, practical craft lesson: an introduction to materials and knot vocabulary, hands-on knotting to form the bag’s body, and a final wrapping technique to make comfortable, durable handles — all paced so beginners can follow along and leave with a finished grocery bag.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this workshop suits — and who it’s designed for.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your creativity — the session is beginner-friendly and hands-on, so come ready to make.
Participants are encouraged to bring creativity and a willingness to learn; tools and instruction focus on hands-on knotting.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the workshop?
The workshop runs for three hours.
Where do participants meet?
The meeting location is the Carriage House.
Do I need prior macramé experience?
No prior macramé or crafting experience is required; the class is suitable for complete beginners.
Will I leave with a finished item?
Yes — you will leave with a finished macramé grocery bag and the confidence to create more pieces on your own.
What skills and techniques will be taught?
The workshop teaches how to select and prepare cord, the Lark's Head Knot and Square Knot, alternating square knots for the bag body, and a wrapping technique for handles.
Who leads the workshop?
Melissa, founder of Hiraya Crystal and Chord, guides participants through the hands-on instruction.