Macrame
Create beautiful decorative items by knotting cotton cord into intricate patterns. This meditative fiber art dates back centuries and produces stunning plant hangers, wall hangings, and home decor using just your hands and simple materials.
What You'll Do
What You Need
Required
- ●Cotton string or rope (any cord 3-5mm thick)($0-5)
- ●Scissors($0)
- ●Wooden dowel, stick, or ring (for mounting)($0)
Optional
- ○Macrame cotton cord (3mm-5mm single twist or 3-ply)($10-20)
- ○Clothing rack or S-hook (for hanging work)($0-10)
How To Do It
- 1
Gather your materials
Find any cord-like material around 3-5mm thick (cotton rope, thick yarn, or even t-shirt strips work). Cut 4 pieces, each about 6 feet long. Grab scissors and something to mount your cords on like a stick, dowel, or even a pencil.
- 2
Learn the Lark's Head Knot
This knot attaches your cords to the dowel. Fold one cord in half, place the loop behind the dowel, then pull the ends through the loop and tighten. Repeat with all 4 cords so you have 8 hanging strands.
- 3
Master the Square Knot
Using 4 strands, take the left outer cord over the 2 middle cords and under the right cord. Then take the right cord under the middle cords and up through the left loop. Pull tight. Repeat starting from the right side to complete one .
- 4
Create a spiral pattern
Make s (only the first half of a ) repeatedly. The cords will naturally twist into a beautiful spiral. This is called a spiral or pattern. Practice until you get even, consistent twists.
- 5
Finish your first project
For a simple keychain, make 5-10 s, then gather all cords and tie an overhand knot at the bottom. Trim the ends evenly and optionally brush out the cord ends to create . You've just completed your first macrame piece!
Tips
- →Common mistake: Inconsistent tension makes knots look uneven. Focus on pulling each knot with the same pressure before moving to the next.
- →Use light-colored cord when learning so you can clearly see the knot structure. Dark colors hide the details.
- →Cut your cords at least 4 times longer than your desired finished length. Running out of cord is the most frustrating beginner mistake.
- →Macrame is forgiving - you can always untie knots and redo them. The only permanent action is cutting, so save trimming for the very end.
- →Roll long cords into small bundles secured with rubber bands to prevent tangling while you work.
Communities
Resources
- Marching North Macrame for Beginners
Comprehensive beginner guide with step-by-step photos for all basic knots plus 20+ free patterns.
- Macrame for Beginners
Dedicated learning site with 1000+ free patterns, tutorials, and a supportive community.
- Bochiknot Macrame Tips
Expert tips from 5+ years of macrame experience to help beginners avoid common pitfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn macrame?
You can learn the 3 basic knots in under an hour and complete your first small project (like a keychain) in a single afternoon. Most Instagram-worthy projects use just these 3 knots in different patterns.
How much does it cost to start macrame?
You can start for free using household rope or thick yarn. A spool of proper macrame cord costs $10-20, and beginner kits with everything included run $20-40. Individual projects typically cost $10-30 in materials.
What's the most common mistake beginners make?
Cutting cords too short. Always cut at least 4 times your desired finished length. Running out of cord mid-project is frustrating, but having extra just means more .
Do I need special macrame cord?
No! Any cord, rope, or thick yarn works. Cotton rope from the hardware store, thick yarn, or even cut t-shirt strips are fine for learning. Dedicated 3mm-5mm macrame cord is easier to work with but not required.
Why do my knots look uneven?
Inconsistent tension is the culprit. Focus on pulling each knot with the same pressure. Also try using 3-ply or braided cord instead of single twist - it's more forgiving for beginners.
What should I make first?
Start with a keychain or simple plant hanger. Both use the same basic knots but are small enough to complete in one sitting without getting overwhelmed.